Difference Between Cultures

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CULTURES OF MEXICO AND THE UNITED STATES/CANADA Although the three countries that make up North America are physically close, Mexico is simply a different country than her northernneighbors. Mexico has a different history and a different culture. Mexicans have their own ways of doing and looking at things. Each Mexican's beliefs, expectations and codes of personal and socialconduct are so different as to be from a different world. Of course, from their perspective, you are from a different world. To successfully interact with a Mexican, it is necessary to enter the worldof the Mexican, and be aware of the fact that your assumptions about how things are done, often are not true. The following comparison table provides a summary of major cultural differences. Thecomparisons are reproduced from Management in Two Cultures - Bridging the gap between US and Mexico, by Eva Kras, 1996-2006, with permission from Intercultural Press Inc., a company specializing inCultural publications

Aspect Family

Religion Education

Nationalism

Mexico Family is the first priority. Children are celebrated and sheltered. Wife fulfills domestic role. Mobility is limited.Long Roman Catholic tradition. Fatalistic outlook. "As God wills." Memorization. Emphasis on theoretical. Rigid, broad curriculum. Very nationalistic. Proud of long history and traditions. Reluctant tosettle outside Mexico.

Canada/USA Family is usually second to work. Children often minimally parented; are independent. Wife often fulfills dual roles. Mobility quite common. Mixed religions."Master of own life" outlook. Analytical approach. Emphasis on the practical. Narrow, in-depth specialization. (U.S.)Very patriotic. Proud of "American way of life." Assumes everyone shares his/hermaterialistic values. (Canadian) Less than U.S.. Often has more " World" view. Separates work from emotions/personal relationships. Sensitivity seen as weakness. Tough business front. Has difficulty with...