Slide 2-1

ASIA/PACIFIC & INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

2. Cultural Influences

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High Context/Low Context

High Context Values formality, face-

saving communication, relationships

Relationships first Nonverbal

communication Time is fluid, flexible

Low Context Values informality,

results, direct communication, fast pace, and punctuality

Relationships interfere with business

Precise agreements Time is money

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Social Values

Personal savings rate

Individual versus the group

Relationships

Family loyalty

Saving face

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Religions and Beliefs

Religious and ethical beliefs influence personal and family life, business conduct

Major religions Buddhism Confucianism Taoism Hinduism Islam Christianity

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Numerology

Forecasting the future by numbers Lucky/Auspicious

2, 5, 3, 6, 7, 8 Double-digits

Unlucky/Inauspicious 4, 13 Single-digits

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Feng Shui

Observing geography and topography to predict the future

Achieving balance between the opposing yin and yang Good—south facing

windows, undulating terrain, uncluttered spaces

Bad—sharp corners, glass doors, front and back door aligned

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Confucianism

5 basic virtues: seriousness, generosity, sincerity, diligence and kindness

5 principle relationships Strive for harmony and

order, morality, correctness of social relationships, justice, sincerity

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Taoism

“The Way”Harmony with natureBehave naturally and

spontaneouslyFollowers should be:

Plain Non-aggressive Accepting of change Content with what one has

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Islam

5 pillars of Islam Faith Prayer Fasting Charity Pilgrimage

Legitimate profit = fair return for risks

Illegitimate profit = usury, speculation

Obligations must be met Islamic financing

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Shinto

Four Principles Family including ancestors Respect for nature Cleanliness Honor for the spirits

living in harmony with nature and other people

Kami (spirits) can inhabit a place or natural feature

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Buddhism

The 8-fold path4 Noble TruthsReligious experience

through meditation and withdrawal

Optimism, respect for life, moderation, love of all mankind

Every person has the potential to attain Nirvana

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Hinduism

Reincarnation continues until spiritual perfection achieved

Accumulated good and bad deeds creates karma

Duty, acceptance, patience, respect for all living things, and personal responsibility

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Sikhism

Balance work, worship, charity, and defense of the rights of all humans and creatures

Optimism, temperance, tolerance, justice, prudence, and dutifulness

Set a good example in business

All share the name Singh

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