Author Archives: livingtheamericandreamineurope

Juneteenth

Juneteenth was first celebrated in 1866 on the anniversary of the date that slavery in Texas ended a year earlier in 1865. It was formally made a paid state holiday in 1980, specifically in Texas. Although it has been observed and celebrated across the US (and some other countries apparently too) since 1866, it wasn’tContinue reading “Juneteenth”

What is culture?

Here are a few of the ‘standard’ models used to discuss what culture is with a brief explanation of each model. Most IC trainers have a favorite model or two that they prefer or will use often, but this is generally a way to only begin the discussion.

Is this the oldest company in Germany?

What is the oldest company in your country?

In Germany, it is arguably Staffelterhof winery in a little village on the Mosel river.

Groundhog Day

I know I am publishing this well past February 2nd, but still think it is culturally relevant, especially in 2022… During the pandemic, at least in the English-speaking western world “Groundhog Day” the popular 1993 film became a shorthand joke for how we’re all supposed to get out of this Corona wave loop. Do youContinue reading “Groundhog Day”

High Culture versus Low Culture

Both terms ‘high’ and ‘low’ culture are seen as derogatory, or disrespectful toward the other. Popular culture, which changes more rapidly and, within this context is seen as a ‘lesser’ aspect of culture as it relates to socioeconomic status. 

One person’s high culture is another’s low culture and vice versa. This is especially true as many aspects of modern popular culture have become ‘canon’ as it were – having great value, importance, or significance since they were first produced.

What is Culture? 

Just how complex is culture compared to what we usually think it is.

That is, what we can see, hear, taste, and smell versus that which flows under the surface, but is really the engine driving each and every one of our interactions. 

You never know what pressures are affecting a person’s day; in addition to external factors, there could be internal cultural factors at play.

So, be kind to those you encounter.