6 chapters across the catalog
A personal anecdote describes an interview with an Indian documentary filmmaker who was baffled by the lack of a "shrine" or display of past achievements in a host's home. The story explores perceived cultural differences regarding the need to display awards and status symbols, particularly among the elite.
Observations from a student tenure at Cal Berkeley detail the distinct eating habits of Chinese national students in the engineering department. The discussion explores how different cultural norms regarding mouth-noises and food handling can cause physical discomfort for those from different backgrounds.
Disability Etiquette and Person-First Language Guidelines
Guidelines for discussing disabilities emphasize "person-first" constructions, such as saying "a person with diabetes" rather than "a diabetic." The University of New Hampshire guide suggests that even the word "disability" is considered pejorative by some, who prefer "differently abled." The hosts mock the requirement to use neutral language like "person living with cancer" instead of "cancer victim."
Cultural Clashes, Rotterdam Mayor, Migrant Aggression
An anonymous report in Die Welt detailed the experiences of a female worker at a Hamburg asylum center who quit due to threats and a lack of respect from migrants. The hosts also discuss an anecdote involving the Muslim mayor of Rotterdam, suggesting that cultural differences regarding the treatment of women are creating friction in European cities.
Yellowstone National Park has experienced a significant influx of Chinese tourists, a trend documented by recent travel reports. Observations from the park highlight cultural frictions regarding queuing and public behavior. Many international visitors are reportedly drawn to the region specifically for the opportunity to visit American shooting ranges, an activity restricted in their home country.
An interview between Diane Sawyer and Amanda Knox touches on a dispute over bathroom hygiene and the use of a toilet brush. This sparks an extended discussion on European "shelf" toilets, high-pressure French plumbing, and the cultural expectations of cleaning up after oneself in different countries.
