Society & Politics

Here are some basics on American culture.

A lot of people seem really confused about American culture and even argue that Americans don't have a unified culture. That is completely untrue. Below is a list of some of America's values but certainly not all of them. These are distinct from other countries.. my personal favorite one to point out is American's deeper need for personal space that is a sharp contrast to our Mexican neighbors.

Independence and self-reliance

Americans value their freedom to live their lives with limited intervention and control by the government. This comes from the Declaration of Independence. Various freedoms are also guaranteed in the Bill of Rights, such as the first amendments rights to free speech and the practice of religion.

This sense of independence motivates the importance of self-determination. Americans are very proud of being self-reliant and able to take care of themselves. They tend to think others should be self-reliant as well.

Examples:

Americans expect anyone who can work to do so to support themselves.

American children tend to leave their parent’s homes early. After high school, the majority of children move out to go to college or start working.

Americans move away easily. It is common for people to move for work and relocate to a new place away from family and friends.

Individualism

Individualism allows you to do what you want as long as you don’t affect other people’s rights. Americans should be free to make their own decisions and control their own lives. Americans like to express themselves and don’t feel obligated to agree with others. They want to be seen as unique.

Examples:

Children are not expected to do the same work or have the same lifestyle as their parents.

Privacy

Americans value privacy and their own space. Many Americans like to have time to themselves away from others. They may be private about certain topics such as their age, salary, or where they live.

Examples:

Americans do not usually go to someone else’s house without an invitation or arranging a visit ahead of time.

Many Americans have fences around their houses to ensure they have privacy. It is expected you walk directly to a front door and not to other parts of their property.

Bedrooms are usually considered private spaces. Neighbors and friends are entertained in the kitchen, dining room, or living room. Parents and children tend to have separate bedrooms.

Americans often give each other more space in public situations than people in other cultures. They tend to stand with a bit of space between them, typically the distance of an outstretched arm.

The government and private companies take strong measures to protect your online, personal, and health information.

Nationalism

The majority of Americans are proud of their country. Many feel patriotic and believe the United States is the best country to live in. Americans appreciate the rights they have. Many take pride in the United States being a strong and influential country.

Examples:

At many schools, children will learn and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. A verse to show respect and promise support to the United States.

During most sporting events, the crowd will sing “God Bless America.” This is a song to show patriotism.

Displaying the American flag is very common in homes and businesses.

Directness

Americans are often very direct. This means they will tell you what they think and be firm about what they want. Being direct is generally seen as honest and practical. When people use a direct approach in their conversations, they are trying to be clear and precise.

Examples:

At work, it is common for employees to receive feedback on how to improve work performance.

If an American disagrees with your opinion, they might tell you. It does not mean they do not like you. They just have a different idea.

In the USA, a firm handshake and making eye contact are ways to communicate.

Being honest when making a commitment to a plan is important. If you can not take someone’s invitation, such as for lunch, it is best to be direct and say you can not go.

Informality

American society is often informal and relaxed. There are not a lot of rules and restrictions for correct behavior. There is no formal hierarchy where some people must be treated as more important than others. People with certain jobs, wealth, or education might still be treated with more respect.

Americans usually call each other by their first names. Titles are rarely used, except for doctors, military or police officers, and elected officials. Americans enjoy dressing casually.

Examples:

When greeting someone, Americans tend to say, “Hi” or “Hello.” You use the same greeting no matter who you talk to.

At home, it is common for pets to live inside the house and sleep on the furniture.

In English, there is only one word for “you” and not multiple words for an informal and formal version.

Time and efficiency

Americans place a lot of value on their time. Some Americans plan out their time carefully, using calendars for their personal and work lives. Americans may feel frustrated if they think someone or something has wasted their time.

The famous saying “time is money” describes how Americans like to use their time “efficiently.” They want to get the most done in the shortest amount of time.

Examples:

It is important to be “on time” and be at a place when you said you would be there. You can get in trouble for being late to school or work.

It is expected that you make an appointment for things like visiting a doctor, teacher, or even a friend. Often being even a little early to an appointment is preferred.

If someone is going to be late to an invitation, they will call or text to let the person know they are late, even if it’s only a few minutes.

Family - American families are small by comparison to many of the world's cultures. The average American family has 2 or fewer children. Most American children live in two parent households. 60% of American mothers have jobs outside the home. Parents of adult children generally live independently, maintaining their own homes though it is common for the elderly to live with their adult children late in life.

Religion - The majority of American citizens are Christian. The Constitution of the United States ensures a separation of Church and State. There is no religious requirement to be a citizen of the United States. All of the World's religions are openly and freely practiced here. However, given that most of the citizens are Christian certain religious consolations are made. Sunday is not included in the workweek and one religious holiday is recognized.

Christmas (December 25th) is the only religious holiday celebrated nationally. It is a celebration of the birth of Christ. It is a one-day holiday for Federal and State Government employees. Most businesses are closed.

Thanksgiving (the 4th Thursday in November) is a generic religious holiday. Many churches have services, but it is not an officially recognized holiday by any religion. It is a time for all American's to give thanks for the blessings they have.

I quoted directly from these two sources below 👇

https://usahello.org/life-in-usa/culture/american-values/

https://www.162wing.ang.af.mil/162nd-Wing/IMSO/Guide-to-the-American-Culture/

Here are some basics on American culture.

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Here are some basics on American culture.
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