Dialogues

Each of the dialogues that appears below contains an example of a cultural misunderstanding. The PCV does not recognize power distinctions in the same way as do people in the host country.

As you read each dialogue, note in the space below the difference in interpretation that you detect.

1. Bosses have Their Reasons

PCV: What did the headmistress decide?
HCN: She said we should put our plan in motion now.
PCV: But it's not ready.
HCN: I know, but she must have her reasons.
PCV: I don't think she's thought it through.
HCN: Maybe not, but she's the boss.
PCV: I'm going to talk to her. I think I can change her mind.

2. A Surprise for the Chief

PCV: I finally figured out how to solve our storage problems.
HCN: How?
PCV: We could clean out that shed by the parking lot. It's full of rotting crates that aren't good anymore.
HCN: That's a great idea. What did Mr. Plonc say?
PCV: The chief? I didn't tell him yet. I want to surprise him.

3. The Golden Spoon

HCN: Where do you want to have lunch?
PCV: How about the Golden Spoon?
HCN: Fine.
PCV: I'm going to invite the provincial representative, since he's visiting.
HCN: Mr. Kamini? He won't eat with us. He'll eat with the supervisors.
PCV: He might like to let his hair down with us commoners.

4. A Lesson

APCD: Did you talk with your department head?
PCV: Mr. Biswas? I thought about it, but he's hopeless.
APCD: I know. He was given that job as a favor.
PCV: I'm going to go straight to the dean.
APCD: Now there's somebody who gets results.
PCV: Maybe this will teach Biswas a lesson.
APCD: How do you mean?
PCV: If you don't do your job, people will go around you.