Intercultural Communication Quiz

What is culture defined as in the context of intercultural communication?

• A system of beliefs, assumptions, and values that people share

• A system of mathematical equations

• A system of laws and regulations

• A system of physical artifacts

Answer explanation

In the context of intercultural communication, culture is defined as "a system of beliefs, assumptions, and values that people share." Culture encompasses various aspects of human societies, including language, customs, norms, traditions, rituals, behaviors, and symbols. It shapes individuals' perceptions, behaviors, and communication patterns, influencing how they interact with others within their cultural group as well as with individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

So, the correct answer is "A system of beliefs, assumptions, and values that people share." This definition captures the multifaceted nature of culture and its influence on communication and interactions between individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

What is the purpose of Affirmative Action in organizations?

• To promote cultural stereotypes

• To maintain the status quo in organizations

• To help, train, and employ people of specific cultural groups who were previously disadvantaged

• To discriminate against certain cultural groups

Answer explanation

The purpose of Affirmative Action in organizations is "To help, train, and employ people of specific cultural groups who were previously disadvantaged." Affirmative Action policies aim to address historical and systemic barriers that have disadvantaged certain groups, such as racial minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities, in employment, education, and other areas. These policies seek to promote equal opportunity and diversity within organizations by actively seeking out and providing opportunities to underrepresented groups.

So, the correct answer is "To help, train, and employ people of specific cultural groups who were previously disadvantaged." Affirmative Action is a proactive approach to promoting equal opportunity and diversity within organizations.

What is Cultural Stereotyping?

• Promoting individual differences within a culture

• Ignoring cultural differences

• Encouraging diversity and inclusion

• Describing people of a culture or ethnic group in a specific way

Answer explanation

Cultural stereotyping refers to "describing people of a culture or ethnic group in a specific way." It involves generalizing and oversimplifying the characteristics, behaviors, and traits of individuals based on their cultural background, often without considering the diversity and complexity within that culture or group.

So, the correct answer is "A subconscious belief in the superiority of one's own culture." Ethnocentrism can be subtle and subconscious, but it influences perceptions and interactions with individuals from other cultures.

What is Ethnocentrism?

• A subconscious belief in the superiority of one's own culture

• A belief in the equality of all cultures

• A rejection of one's own culture

• A practice of valuing all cultures equally

Answer explanation

Ethnocentrism is "a subconscious belief in the superiority of one's own culture." It involves viewing one's own cultural group as superior to others and judging other cultures based on the standards and values of one's own culture. Ethnocentrism can lead to prejudice, discrimination, and a lack of understanding or empathy for cultural differences.

So, the correct answer is "A subconscious belief in the superiority of one's own culture." Ethnocentrism can be subtle and subconscious, but it influences perceptions and interactions with individuals from other cultures.

What are some barriers to intercultural communication?

• Cultural stereotyping, Ethnocentrism, Defensiveness, Unequal power

• Homogeneity, Equality, Openness, Collaboration

• Uniformity, Superiority, Aggressiveness, Power

• Diversity, Humility, Flexibility, Equality

Answer explanation

Some barriers to intercultural communication include:

• Cultural stereotyping: Preconceived notions and generalizations about other cultures can lead to misunderstandings and hinder effective communication.

• Ethnocentrism: The tendency to judge other cultures based on the standards and values of one's own culture can lead to a lack of understanding and empathy for cultural differences.

• Defensiveness: Being defensive or closed-minded about one's own cultural beliefs and practices can inhibit the ability to empathize and communicate effectively with individuals from other cultures.

• Unequal power: Power imbalances between individuals or groups from different cultures can create barriers to communication, as the less powerful group may feel intimidated or unable to express themselves freely.

So, the correct answer is "Cultural stereotyping, Ethnocentrism, Defensiveness, Unequal power." These barriers can hinder understanding and communication between individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

What is a World View in the context of culture?

• Culture's philosophical view of God, man, nature, and the universe

• Culture's view of sports and entertainment

• Culture's view of fashion and trends

• Culture's view of technology and innovation

Answer explanation

A world view in the context of culture refers to the fundamental beliefs, values, and assumptions that shape how members of a culture perceive and interpret the world around them. It encompasses a culture's philosophical perspective on fundamental aspects of existence, including its view of God, humanity, nature, and the universe.

So, the correct answer is "Culture's philosophical view of God, man, nature, and the universe." This reflects the broader philosophical perspective that shapes a culture's understanding of fundamental aspects of existence.

How can intercultural communication be improved?

• Create an atmosphere of trust, Accept differences openly, Understand the transactional nature of communication, Consider people as individuals

• Promote cultural stereotypes, Avoid differences, Ignore communication dynamics, Generalize people into groups

• Create a hostile environment, Reject differences, Misinterpret communication, Stereotype individuals

• Create a closed-minded atmosphere, Disregard differences, Misunderstand communication, Group people together

Answer explanation

intercultural communication can be improved through various strategies that foster understanding, respect, and effective interaction between individuals from different cultures.

Therefore, the strategies that can help improve intercultural communication are: creating an atmosphere of trust, accepting differences openly, understanding the transactional nature of communication, and considering people as individuals.

What is the definition of Organisational culture?

• A set of marketing strategies within an organization

• A set of financial statements within an organization

• A set of ideas, values, and attitudes shared within an organization

• A set of physical structures within an organization

Answer explanation

The definition of organizational culture is "a set of ideas, values, and attitudes shared within an organization." Organizational culture encompasses the beliefs, behaviors, norms, and practices that characterize how members of an organization interact with each other and with external stakeholders. It shapes the organization's identity, influences decision-making processes, and guides employee behavior.

So, the correct answer is "A set of ideas, values, and attitudes shared within an organization." Organizational culture defines the behavioral norms and expectations within a workplace, influencing how individuals and groups within the organization interact and operate.

What is Cultural Mores?

• Physical artifacts that represent a culture

• Mathematical equations that define a culture

• Laws and regulations that a cultural group must follow

• Customs and habits that a cultural group accept as right

Answer explanation

Cultural mores refer to customs and habits that a cultural group accepts as right or morally correct. They are social norms that dictate behaviors, values, and beliefs that are considered essential to the functioning and well-being of society. Mores often include rules about manners, etiquette, morality, and interpersonal relationships, and they play a significant role in shaping social interactions and maintaining social order within a culture.

So, the correct answer is "Customs and habits that a cultural group accepts as right." Cultural mores are the accepted standards of behavior within a society, reflecting its values and moral principles.

What is Cultural Norms?

• The right way of behaving within a culture

• The wrong way of behaving within a culture

• The random way of behaving within a culture

• The only way of behaving within a culture

Answer explanation

Cultural norms are the right way of behaving within a culture. They represent the accepted standards of behavior and attitudes within a particular society or group. These norms guide individuals on how to interact with others, what is considered appropriate or inappropriate behavior, and what is expected in various social situations. They provide a framework for social order and cohesion within a culture.

So, the correct answer is "The right way of behaving within a culture." Cultural norms help individuals navigate social interactions and understand what is expected of them in their cultural context.