I need to know the cultural differences between U.S. and Thailand?

Answer 1

Hi Cinde - This is a very long and complicated subject. The differences are vast and great, small and subtle as well. I write novels w/cultural differences being a major theme and feel that even at book length I come up short.

There is a Thai logic that is oft undiscernable until you sort through the thought process, and even then sometimes, with great allowances, it still does not make sense, though sometimes it makes enormous sense. There are many contradictions here and depending upon your specific areas of interest, it would be impossible to sort through here..

I think one of the major things is a different view of time - and family. If you have specific concerns, feel free to email me.. but suffice it to say that this is the other side of the world, as mentioned above, Thai are not particularly like other orientals, buddhism, the school system, all play a part. But a positive side, oft lacking in the west, is a great sense of humor and ability to have a light heart.

Answer 2

Why do you need to know? It's almost imposable to explain the differences in the Thai way of thinking and the western way.

I've been here for 4 years and every time I learn something new about the culture I realize I know nothing.

The thing I'm finding most frustrating at the moment are the prejudices that prevail here. Prejudices against women, skin colour, other nations (racism) etc...

Also Thai people do not like to talk about their culture, well they do not like to discuss it so it's difficult to find out how things work.

Answer 3

ignore boobam. u find more racists in the states. OKAY so since i've lived here for 13 years and i go to an international skool im reliable, i hav many american frenz.

first off americans (the ones i know) tend to be more outspoken and do not really pay MUCH heed to the other person's feelings. in the states acording to my friend ppl are survivors while in thailand ppl tend to be more happy carefree ad innocent.
thai peopl have a lot of respect for the king, if you make a joke about the King, you get kicked behind bars
thai people care more about their families and most stay at home with their grandparents.
but really its hard to explain because it would be unfair to say that Thai people are more caring towards other people's feelings than USA people - thai people "kreng jai" which means they have to "whitelie" a bit, eg if u get a really drastic nasty haircut, we'd lie thru our teeth and say it looks okay and unique, cus its kreng jai. we have been taught that way grown up and we have to keep our tempers in check with adults (yes i know that sucks).
most westerners see "kreng jai" as lying.
so i'm teling you know. it may be, but if you know ur haircut is crap, ud rather have ppl say its ok than be straightforward.

neway, come here, and ull learn alotmore
:)

Answer 4

I've been here 12 years and still don't know all of the differences.
Respect for the king, fear of giving offence which is so strong that they will happily lie, completely different way of thinking with a unique system of logic, respect for all life, utter disinterest in politics, live for the moment mentality, extreme modesty in spite of the girly bars, the concept of punctuality is totally absent. The list is endless. Some differences are good, some bad, some inconvenient.

Answer 5

Much different. Not easy to explain here. American is much differed from oriental people and Thai also has its unique culture and way of living which also different from other oriental people. Buddhism has lot of influence to their culture and way of living.

Like to help but let me see how can I suggest you some web site so that you can read them by yourself. If I can explain you by words it would be much easier or you write me and ask for more specific areas.

Answer 6

In Thailand, it is against the law touch somebody head.
What about hair dressers?

Answer 7

i bypass 2 call a lot, because i do no longer note of which ones were finished already! accent stress on diverse elements of the line Britain has a Queen u . s . of united states has more beneficial pollution Britain is smaller Shakespeare replaced into born in Britain I stay in Britain u . s . of united states use the $, Britain use the £ u . s . of united states calls crisps "Potato Chips", and chips "French Fries"

Answer 8

you can read a lot about it on the internet,type in thailand culture and read.

Answer 9

That is a very broad question. You need to narrow it down. What specific cultural differences are you referring to?
Social?, Religious?, Culinary?.....etc.........

Answer 10

you ll know if you got a chance to be there to experience it your self. just be humble while you are there