PDF 4 - Respectful Cross-Cultural Writing

Question 1

What is respectful cross-cultural writing?

Answer 1

• The practice of creating content that
  accurately and empathetically portrays cultures different from one’s own.
• Goal is to foster understanding and promote positive interactions across diverse backgrounds.

Question 2

A respectful cross-cultural writer will… (the right way)

Answer 2

1. Research and Understand
2. Be Empathetic
3. See Individuality: Treat individuals as individuals, with their own complex profile of characteristics, experiences, and perspectives. Do not treat one person or one group of people as representative of an entire cultural group. Do not make assumptions of the individual due to their membership in a cultural group
4. Seek Clarification
5. Admit Mistakes

Question 3

A respectful cross-cultural writer will avoid… (the wrong way)

Answer 3

1. Cultural Appropriation
2. Stereotypes and Othering: Avoid perpetuating stereotypes or portraying a culture as monolithic. Represent the diversity within each culture and avoid “othering” by treating it as exotic or foreign.
3. Assumptions and Generalizations
4. Language Barriers: Be aware of language nuances. Words or phrases may have different meanings or connotations across cultures. Seek clarification when in doubt.
5. Ignoring Power Dynamics

Question 4

Absolute Language

Answer 4

• Refers to the use of words or phrases that express definitiveness, leaving no room for middle ground or ambiguity
• Sometimes this language is appropriate to use, such as when you want to forcefully express a perspective
• Use of absolute language in cross-cross cultural writing can reinforce negative stereotypes and assumptions

Question 5

Pitfalls of Absolute Language

Answer 5

• Leaves no room for nuance or exceptions. This can lead to inflexibility in communication.
• Using absolutes like “always” or “everyone” can lead to overgeneralization.
• Often lacks precision. It doesn’t convey degrees or shades of meaning.
• Can escalate disagreements and create polarization.
• Sets high expectations that may not be achievable.

Question 6

Absolute Language Alternatives

Answer 6

• Instead of saying “always” or “never,” use qualifiers like “often” or “usually.”
• Use comparative words to express relative degrees: (“better,” “worse,” “more,” “less”)
• Hedging phrases soften the impact of an assertion. Examples include: “In my opinion…”, “It seems that…”, “Perhaps…”
• Instead of absolutes, use terms that acknowledge uncertainty (“likely,” “probably,” “possibly,” etc.)
• Frame your statements conditionally (“if,” “unless,” “provided that,” etc.)