2 replies to this topic

[carolgreen270]

Having lived here for years I still find it difficult to understand some codes of behavior, especially since they differ from Japanese, something I found out the hard way. As a westrener, I quickly learned that making physical contact is unwelcomed here, although there is more tollerance for westreners. One thing I can say is that the codes of conduct are very complex, since what applies to some does not apply to others. I hope the people more familiar with some of this will share, not just what they are but also the reasons behind them.

Thanks in advance.

[mohistManiac]

Depends on which part of China, theoretically. The codes can't be the same for everywhere. If you are in the north of China having face is very important which is why everyone will try to pay for the dinner. The guy with most face will end up paying for it. He is a host and most generous and kind. In the middle parts like Shanghai it is an allusion to face that becomes important and the person will try to pay for it either at the beginning or at some point before the very end. Of course it's all up to chance someone might have already paid before him. But there is less fighting since he doesn't really want to fight for it but just wants to have face in the end anyway. In the southern parts it is a show that everyone puts on again an allusion because everyone actually took turns paying. North and south sometimes have totally different culture but on the outside appears to be the same.

Edited by mohistManiac, 01 August 2012 - 09:27 PM.

[ghostexorcist]

Aren't you Jake10 from Historum?