When looking at cultural relativism and what is right in the US may be wrong in another country, the first thing that comes to mind is the cultural differences between the US and Afghanistan (Muslim Culture). In the United States we seem to care more about the individual where in Afghanistan it’s all about the collective. It is almost a night and day difference between the two but we do have some things in common. With Afghanistan being predominate Muslim (Islam) culture, many of their customs are from their religious text. Islam governs much of their personal, political, economic and legal lives. The family unit is the single most important thing in the Afghan culture. When one looks at the traditional limes, men and women’s roles are much more defined. Women are responsible for household duties, while the men are the “bread” winners. When it comes to dealing with different tribes, aka communities, more often than not a marriage is arranged. Tribes, status, and wealth are the major factors forming any choice. When it comes to Afghan culture and manners I think of their roles of hospitality. Hospitality is an essential role of the Afghan culture. When you visit an Afghan local’s home, no matter who you are, you will be given the very best that the family has to offer. This is linked to their religion, culture and honor, which I will discuss later. Afghans, like we do in the US, make “small talk”. When you meet someone from Afghanistan, they will always ask about your health, business, family, and any issues that you wish to vent about. When you first meet someone and you are invited for tea, it is good manners to bring a small gift. If you are invited for lunch and/or dinner it is important to bring fruits or sweets. It is considered poor taste to “brag” about bringing a gift. The brining of a gift should be subtle, it is best to place it near the door when entering. Many things are considered taboo in Afghanistan that are not here in the US. When you meet someone or are in public, only use your right hand. It is considered a very large insult to use your left because it is only to be used for hygiene purposes. In regards to hygiene, the use of toilet paper can be considered an insult and offensive. Another big taboo in Afghan culture is the showing of the soles of your feet to others. This is taboo because they believe the feet are dirty and they are on the ground, closet to the devil, furthest from Allah. It is also taboo to make eye contact with women if you are a male. Only husband and wife are allowed eye contact. With Islam being the main region, Afghan Muslims will pray five times a day. They pray toward Mecca at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset and evening. Friday is their holy day and many shops and offices are closed. During the holy month of Ramadan, they fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting for them includes but not limited to eating, drinking, smoking and chewing gum in public. In the Afghan culture they derive what is right and wrong from their holy book. This is where the biggest difference comes into place between their culture and the US culture. In my opinion the best way to some this up would be took look at how they see honor. Honor in the Afghan culture defines the reputation and worth of an individual as well as those who associate with them. The head of the family is who is responsible for upholding the families honor. The issue of honor drives much of the behavior surrounding the protection of women, modes of dress, social interaction, education and economic activity. If someone’s honor has been “compromised”, they are shamed and will look for a way to exact revenge to recover their or their families honor.
The general attitude and daily life in Afghanistan and with their culture is friendly and family orientated. Against popular belief, many of those in the Afghan culture are very friendly and helpful. As long as you do not offend them too bad they
