Bemused in America

In the article Bemused in America, Stefan Shirmer, a journalist from Munich (Germany) is analyzing the American culture in a supermarket. He found many differences among the sales, "Buy-one-get-one-free", Ready to eat food, and the never ending brand names. He also was shocked that grocery stores are open until midnight AND on Sundays. He was very concerned with the lack of nutrition among our food and the idea of fat-free chips, yogurt, and milk. This has proven Stefan that his culture is some-what different compared to the lives of Americans. He pointed out that many of the decorations and advertising inside the stores were similar to those in Germany.

Having a complete-opposite culture among you may feel very uncomfortable. Felling lost in a world that is unlike yours is pretty scary and unwelcoming. Stefan experienced the outcome of a stranger/alien entering a new culture.

American values influence the way we act, speak, and react towards situations. Since the German journalist wasn't prone to the the American culture he reacted differently in certain situations than an American would. The value of money management was introduced while Stefan commented on the amount of saving that is provided in advertisements and throughout the isles.