The iceberg model
The tip of the iceberg model consists of elements of culture, including the 4Fs, Food, Festivals, Folks and Fashion. Whereas below the tip of the iceberg consists of elements that are not commonly seen under own naked eyes. These elements go deeper into one's culture and can thus make us understand their way of life.
My thoughts
Knowing such different elements can help to prevent accidents such as not knowing that Muslims do not eat non-halal food and in the end having to bring him/her to the non-halal restaurant and misunderstanding might occur. Such accidents can be avoided when we take our time to fully understand one's culture. These elements of culture can be very useful when trying to do businesses with other countries. As Singapore is a multi-rational society, we cannot afford to be insensitive to other people. In the end, the one who gets hurt will always be yourself. We must establish a good relationship with other races and other countries in order to remain competitive and always strive to learn from others and gain more.
Similarities between Singapore and China's culture
- Competitive
- Filial piety
- Traditional beliefs
- Men are the head of the family while the women do the housework.
- Nation before community and society before self
Differences between Singapore and China's culture
- China has only one race: Chinese while Singapore is more concerned more about racial harmony due to the different races in Singapore.
- Singapore is more concerned about hygiene and you do not see people spitting in the public but many China people do that.
