Culture: An Iceberg Analogy

In 1976, Edward T. Hall (an American anthropologist) developed the iceberg analogy of culture. Hall reasoned that if culture is an iceberg, there are some aspects which are visible and can be seen (above the water), and a larger aspect which is hidden beneath the surface (below the water).

The external conscious part of culture is what we can physically see (i.e. the tip of the iceberg). These parts of culture are those which are often encountered first when emerging into a new country or culture, such as architecture, food, art, music, dance, religious practices, types of dress, language or greetings and more. This includes behaviors which you can see such as people kissing as they greet others, shaking hands, queuing, holding eye contact or hand/facial gestures.

The internal unconscious part of culture is beneath the surface of what we can see (i.e. below the water line). These parts of culture are those which are related to or cause those parts which you can see, such as beliefs, values, motivations, world views, gender roles, etiquette, social or familial rules, importance of time, concepts of self and many more. These patterns of thought underlie the behaviors which can physically be seen.

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Whether you are spending a week or three months abroad, you should educate yourself on local customs and language of your destination. Read and watch the news so you can understand current affairs, which may affect locals and how they perceive foreigners.

Understand the type of government and structure so you can speak respectfully.

Learn a few key phrases in the national language. By making an effort to speak the language, locals tend to be more welcoming and you will be able to really experience life in that city and country.

Cultural customs in some countries may seem strange to us living in New York City. It is normal for a tourist to experience a little culture shock regarding certain customs and you may even possibly be offended. You must remember you are in a different country and what may not be acceptable in the U.S., can be acceptable in the country you are visiting.  The same can be said that the country you are visiting may not understand your culture. Some countries have a different attitude toward women, the LGBTQ population, disabled, mentally ill or challenged, and people of color.

Be flexible, tolerant and sensitive, and be willing to engage in a respectful conversation regarding some of these topics and concerns.

Some suggestions for dealing with culture shock include:

• “Plunge” into your host culture and wrestle with the differences.
• Keep an open mind. We all have preconceived ideas and beliefs that come into question while abroad.
• Get to know others on your team/in the course, and in the local country. Do not isolate yourself.
• Find a “cultural informant,” such as a local person with whom you can discuss your frustrations and encounters with difference.
• Learn as much as you can about the local culture.
• Maintain a support structure with others, particularly those going through the same experience. However, do not retreat into an American “clique” to avoid the discomfort of culture shock.
• Keep a journal. Record your impressions of new experiences and the transformations that are occurring within you.

The Office of Global Programs recommends the following sites for more information, although there are numerous websites and online newspaper that can be accessed.

http://www.culturecrossing.net/ (Culture Crossing)

http://www.worldtraderesource.com/data/NYU%20Community (World Trade Resources)