Direct communication is a strongly held value in French culture. One day while I was on the bus with a few friends on our way to class, a woman started up a conversation with us. She just asked us where we were from etc. and the quick conversation naturally faded. But then all of a sudden she started it back up again by asking us “Trump or Biden?” We answered the question and the conversation again ended and then she would do the same thing were she would abruptly ask random questions. It felt so abrupt, I think because in the U.S we aren’t as used to casually discussing political views or sides. Especially so abruptly and with a stranger. Another question she asked was whether we liked French people. She was being serious and she wanted a real answer. I had preconceived notions before arriving in Europe that they were a little more direct and open to talking about certain topics compared to the U.S like politics including American politics. I don’t necessarily see this as a bad thing. I can appreciate the openness and willingness to communicate about such topics. Although I don’t necessarily think it would be as easy to have those conversations here as we’re so polarized. Most of all I was just a little thrown off because I was not used to this type of conversations so casually. I think from their point of view, they were just starting up conversation and saw an opportunity to learn more about our political system and our viewpoints. I think, generally speaking, other cultures are more knowledgeable and or willing to learn about culture and politics. My host mom would often have the news on while we ate dinner. So, I think the woman was just inquiring and it was completely normal from their perspective. I think from her perspective and many others who have adopted this culture (the idea of direct communication) is something that they don’t think twice about. I think the culture is very direct because you have to say exactly what you want in order to get what you want. So, I think it’s a culture where you must be direct and it helps to avoid more obstacles and just get to the point. Which I think is admirable, I personally can get tired of the hoops to jump through for a number of things.
I believe this exercise deepens my understanding of another culture and therefore allowed to me to understand another culture. Which gives me a wide perspective on on how different cultures have different ways of communication and perspectives, ways of living in general. I think it has taught me how important being open is and accepting new cultures and ideas. These three exercises have allowed me to look back and reflect on my thoughts about how I conceived Europe would be compared to the U.S before, during, and after this opportunity. It’s important to then form opinions after reflecting.