Introduction to German Culture

Exploring German Culture


Introduction


Today, I am looking forward to kicking off my blog that will be diving into the intriguing world of German culture. Germany’s traditions, rich history, and significant contributions to various fields make it a captivating country. Read along and join me on our journey where I will explore the aspects of German culture that aren't seen by the naked eye. This deep dive will enhance our future interactions with people from Germany and those with German backgrounds.


So, Why German Culture?


Germany has fascinated me with its modern automobile innovation, historical significance, and advances in technology. My family immigrated from Germany to the United States in the mid-1900’s. The architectural wonders of the medieval castles to the advancements in technology and engineering, Germany offers a wonderful cultural experience. By studying German culture, I am looking to gain a deep understanding of the culture’s values, customs, and social norms. I also find the different languages spoken in Germany interesting. By looking into these things I will build stronger connections with people from Germany, and get a better understanding of where my family came from. 


Preliminary Research


Germany’s culture can be characterized by its emphasis on precision, efficiency, and family. These are just a few examples that I will dive into deeper in future blog posts. Some of the key feature of German culture include:

  • Holidays: Germany celebrates several traditional and modern holidays such as (possibly the most widely known) Oktoberfest, Christmas (Weihnachten), and Unity Day (Tag der Deutschen Einheit.)

  • Clothing: Traditional clothing such as Dirndl and Lederhosen, is worn on special occasions. Modern fashion is highly influential in German culture.

  • Food: German cuisine is known for its hearty dishes. These foods include Wurst, Brezeln, and sauerkraut. Each region of Germany has its own food specialties. 


Understanding Our Cultural Perspectives


The statement, “In studying other cultures, we do so very often from the perspective of our own culture,” this highlights the challenge of cultural bias. It is important to realize that our native culture can influence how we are perceiving and interpreting other cultures. To ensure the information is accurate and unbiased, I will take the following steps: 


  1. Engage with Primary Sources: I hope to seek out firsthand accounts and primary sources from individuals who are part of German Culture.

  2. Consult Diverse References: I will use a variety of reputable sources, such as academic articles, books, and the CIA factbook to gather my information

  3. Reflect on Myself: I plan to reflect on my own biases and strive to approach my research with an open mind. 

  4. Verify Information: Finally, I will cross-check my information from several sources to ensure its accuracy.


Conclusion:


With this deep dive into German culture, I am aiming to broaden my understanding and improve my ability to interact with people from diverse backgrounds. This experience will not only enhance my knowledge of Germany but also equip me with the skills to appreciate and respect other cultures.

























Works Cited

  1. Oktoberfest Photograph: Loudenback, Tanza. “America’s 16 Best Beer Gardens for Celebrating Oktoberfest.” Business Insider, 23 Sept. 2015, www.businessinsider.com/best-places-to-celebrate-oktoberfest-in-us-2015-9.

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