An Interpersonal Experience
Culture Shock
Bogota
Colombian Music:
Vallenato
7 elements of culture
 7 Elements of CultureColombian Flag |  Social Organization: FamilyColombians follow he nuclear family system which consists of a husband, wife, and children. Yet an extended family is very kin even though they don't live under the same household. Moreover, the head of the house is typically the man with women taking more of a supporting and caretaker role, also known as machismo. However many women of lower-class are forced to work to help out with expenses therefore are seen as more of an equal to their partner. |  Social Organization: Social ClassThere are clearly distinct social classes in Colombia. The upper-elite (20%) holds the majority of wealth and there is a wide gap between them and the masses. Social mobility is limited among the middle and lower social classes. It is easier to move up the social ladder in urban cities than in rural lands. Social class is determined by income, occupation, family-background and education. |
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 Customs and TraditionsColombia's different regions each hold their own customs and traditions. Each regions geographical positioning and climate plays a role in them. As well most of them are shaped after the Spanish. As children good manners, respect for elders, and greetings among strangers are implemented. |  Religion: Catholic NationColombia is a predominantly catholic country. 92% of the population identifies themselves as Roman Catholic. Therefore it is a monotheismic nation, following one God. There are many devout Catholics that attend mass daily and are baptized as babies. |  Language: SpanishThe official language of Colombia is Spanish. It was adopted during Spanish Colonial times. Colombians pride in their usage of proper Castillan Spanish. More so there are around 90 dialects used by indigenous people. |
 Arts and LiteratureArt is seen as a way to demonstrate Colombia's natural talent so the government and private owners like to support local artists as well as more traditional art such as the ones found in el "museo de oro". The greatest literary author as well as most recognized is Gabriel Garcia Marquez (noble-prize author) who's signature post-modern writing has been highly acclaimed. The national dance and music style would be the "cumbia" a rhythmic courtship dance. |  Forms of GovernmentColombia's government system is a representative democracy, with a central government and separation of powers. It consists of three branches, judiciary, executive, and legislative. The executive branch consists of a president who is elected every four years. |  Economic SystemsColombia runs on a free market economy. It's exports include coffee, emeralds, bananas, fresh-cut flowers, oil, and coal. These exports are sold to foreign nations including the United States aiding the economy. The manufacturing sector employs over 35% of the labor workforce. |
 THE ENDDescribe your image here |
Q & A With Diana Buitrago
S: wHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF CULTURE?
DB: My definition of culture would be the beliefs I was raised to adhere to. For example,
my religious beliefs have been taught and strongly enforced on since I was born. Furthermore,
my style of living, the music I listen to, and the food I eat are all parts that reflect my culture.
s: wHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR CULTURE?
DB: What is there not to love. My culture in my perspective is one of the best. The loving and
caring hospitality given by the people from Colombia is what most people who visit admire
besides its natural beauty. Also the beautiful music and delicious food will probably be my favorite
part of it.
s; dO YOU HAVE ANY EATING HABITS/RITUALS THAT ARE SPECIFIC TO YOUR CULTURE?
Our staple food in the mountainsie of Colombia is potatoes. A traditional plate from the capital would be nothing without the different types of potatoes Colombians are accostomed to. Another typical food is rice, if not one or the other will always appear on your plate. On Good Friday, most Colombians are not allowed to eat red meat since most are Roman Catholics.
s: iN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS CONSIDERED MOST RESPECTFUL IN YOUR CULTURE? mOST dISRESPECTFUL?
DB: Respect for your elders and love for your children is the most respectful thing in Colombia. The most disrespectful would be likewise disrespecting your elders by not doing what they tell you to do. Along the same lines not properly greeting someone you know when you see them is a sign of disrespect even among strangers the formality should be to at least aknowledge their presence.
s: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOMBIAN SONG AND WHAT MEMORY IS ASSOCIATED WITH IT?
DB: As strange as it sound the Colombian national anthem would have to be my favorite song. It reminds me that even though I was born in the United States when I hear it play I easily identify with Colombia. I know all the lyrics to it so I am always singing along. Moreover, the national anthem in a way defines who I AM.
