Cultural Conflict Flashcards
List three biblical insights related to cultural differences.
The three biblical insights mentioned in this chapter are Gen 1:2 where it talks about the vast array, also in Gen 1:31 God says it was very good and Gen 1:27 says all people bear the image of God so we are all the same in God’s eyes.
Explain the concept of “Losing face”
Losing face is a concept that is used meaning that a person doesn’t want to look bad or be humiliated by not knowing something in this case directions. Because of this, Western culture will lie instead of not giving help at all because of their culture.
What does the author mean by “Most cross-cultural conflicts are not intentional”
What the author means when he writes “most cross-cultural conflicts are not intentional” is that a lot of people can have conflict with other cultures because they don’t know their culture and have false prejudices against that individual.
What does the author mean by “God cannot be adequately be revealed in a creation of similarities”
What the author means when he writes “ God cannot adequately be revealed in a creation of similarities” is that if everything in creation was the same we wouldn’t have other cultures, heritages, or diversity. It writer says “that only in this immense and grand variety could we begin to capture the character, grace, and glory of God.”
Explain: “My experiences suggest that the large majority of conflicts resulting in brokenness are caused neither by core theological values being threatened nor by overt sin”
The best way to explain this is to restate what the writer stated “Most conflicts that disrupt our lives grow out of innocent misunderstandings, unmet expectations, failure to get all the facts, or minor irritations that fester and become problems.” So it’s not so much the big things that cause conflict like values or sin, it’s the little things that add up over time.
What problems can arise from the American concept of “Individualism”
Some problems that can come from the American version of individualism include hurting churches, families, friendships and groups. If you have this individualistic attitude you won’t be able to or will struggle with bridging differences, reconnecting with people, forgiving others, and healing. It also causes impatience.
The author points out that unity in the body of Christ is a major aspect of glorifying God. What critical or foundational aspects of the unity of believers does that author overlook?
I think the author does not understand the full implication of becoming a “new creature” in Christ through the birth of the water and Spirit. “For by one Sprit are we all baptized into one body.” It is the Sprit that gives life. The flesh profits nothing. Those truly walking in the Spirit and loving truth have little problem with Christina unity. Of course, when we fail on those counts, the only thing left is the frail arm of the flesh.
What did the author identify as the number one need of overseas-base missionaries?
the biggest conflict is among themselves
What is the “win-lose strategy”
Win-lose strategy is when you will defend your case and will not accept defeat, even if this means hurt in relationships. These people “assume that everything should be seen as right or wrong.”
What is the “avoidance strategy”
The avoidance tactic for conflict is avoiding conflict in and of itself. People who avoid usually avoid to maintain good relationships by staying away from conflict. This is a lose-lose situation and really only should be used with wisdom for example, hostile situations.
What is the “giving-in” approach
The giving-in conflict management approach is more of a lose-win situation. This individual will always let the opposing view win in order to keep a good relationship. They are willing to make sacrifices except for a few occasions on strong beliefs.
What is the “compromise” strategy
The compromise strategy is where each member must give a little to get a little which can be a very affective way for conflict, however, there are some issues with this strategy such as endangering relationships or if one party overpowers the other party.
What is the “carefronting” strategy
Carefronting is the strategy to where you actually approach the person and talk to them to where you will most likely end up with a win-win situation. The steps to achieve this are 1. You must talk face to face and be honest. 2. You must commit to preserve the relationship and explain your goals. 3. Find a solution to where you both win. 4. Be reasonable with emotions under control. 5. Be able to separate the person from the issue. 6. Make sure there is peace at the end of the resolvement.
How can directness in language, common in most Western cultures, cause offense in some cultures?
Directness in language can cause offense in some cultures because they use an indirect approach and are not used to taking the blame directly but indirectly saying something like “The cup fell and died” instead of “I dropped the cup.” It keeps their honor in tact.
Why is indirectness important in many non-Western cultures?
Indirectness is important in many non-Western cultures because they like to keep their “face” and honor. They don’t like to be the reason something is wrong so instead of admitting it was them or an individual, they will indirectly talk about the problem at hand.
