Cultural Adiaphora

Summary of Cultural Adiaphora

Cultural patterns and business behavior in which a foreigner may, but need not, participate at his option without giving offense to the norms of the country in which he is visiting. For example, a Western businessman in Japan may elect to bow upon greeting a Japanese associate, rather than to shake hands. The use of the local custom by the Westerner does not offend the Japanese, nor is it expected of him.

(Main Author: William J. Miller)