Modern African American Culture Essay Example

2013). These dimensions include individualism versus collectivism, power distance index, pragmatic versus normative orientation, masculinity versus femininity, and indulgence versus restraint. In terms of the power distance index dimension specifically, African Americans hold a moderate belief in equality and democracy.

The African American culture emphasizes collectivism and mutual support, distinguishing it from cultures that prioritize individualism (Boyd, 2008). Gender roles in this culture are clearly defined and impose specific expectations on the behavior of men and women in society. In the African American community, masculinity holds dominance while women are viewed as less assertive, submissive, and inferior to men. Additionally, the African American culture promotes constraint rather than indulgence, with its members adhering to norms and taboos that restrict certain activities.

The African American culture follows normative behavior rather than pragmatic behavior, adhering to certain standards of behavior. Understanding culture is enhanced by the use of global cultural taxonomy, which is based on nine dimensions that distinguish cultures. These dimensions include humane orientation, assertiveness, in-group collectivism, performance orientation, gender egalitarianism, future orientation, institutional collectivism, power distance, and uncertainty avoidance (Lustig & Koester, 2013). Within this taxonomy, African Americans demonstrate moderate power distance due to their belief in equality and high uncertainty due to the perception of their culture being constantly under attack.

Boyd (2008) states that the African American culture demonstrates high levels of in-group collectivism and institutional collectivism, expressing loyalty and pride through mutual assistance. With a primarily masculine society, the culture also has low gender egalitarianism. During my first year of college, I encountered various cultures that were both fascinating and challenging. Despite the unavoidable interaction with these cultures, understanding them proved to be difficult

for me. Engaging in different college activities often placed me in situations where I was surrounded by other cultures, which influenced how I viewed students from diverse backgrounds. Cultural identity encompasses ethnicity, ethnocentrism, stereotyping, prejudice, racism, social class, and religious affiliation; all of these factors significantly impacted my perspective on other cultures.

College provided numerous opportunities for cultural interaction through events such as sports days, fun days, talents fairs, and more. Despite these chances, I faced challenges when trying to connect with different cultures due to my own preconceptions. I often fell victim to ethnocentrism, making judgments about others' behavior based on my own cultural values and beliefs without truly understanding them. Additionally, I used to view other cultures through the lens of racism, placing importance on skin color and erroneously believing that my own was superior.

My perception of other ethnic groups as weak is influenced by my language, cultural beliefs, and values (Lustig ; Koester, 2013). During college, I noticed that different religious affiliations were a significant part of cultural identity. These various religious groups had conflicting values with mine, leading me to view them differently. Additionally, social class played a role in shaping cultural identity at my college - students from lower social classes faced discrimination compared to those from higher classes.

Stereotyping and prejudice are related concepts that impact our perception of other cultures. Preconceived images result in discrimination against certain cultures. Personally, my cultural identity revolves around being a Christian and placing God as the central point of my life.

My culture emphasizes certain values, including abstinence until marriage, modest dressing, abstaining from alcohol consumption, and treating everyone with kindness. Throughout my time in

school, I encountered diverse cultures such as Hispanics, Asians, African Americans, and more. I observed that individuals from different cultures have distinct clothing preferences; some opt for revealing attire while others prefer a more casual style. Moreover, I overheard conversations about parties involving alcohol consumption and discussions regarding girls perceived as promiscuous. These lifestyle choices contrast significantly with my conservative cultural beliefs which prioritize pleasing God rather than seeking validation from others. This experience taught me the importance of embracing one's cultural identity and made me realize the significant variations that exist between cultures.

References

• Boyd, T. (2008). African Americans and popular culture. Westport, Conn: Praeger.
• Lustig, M & Koester, J. (2013). Intercultural Competence. New York: Person Education

The provided references include:
- Boyd, T. (2008). African Americans and popular culture. Westport, Conn: Praeger.
- Lustig, M & Koester, J. (2013). Intercultural Competence. New York: Person Education