Experiencing Culture Shock, Offensive Questions from Both Sides of the Global Divide

Globalization challenges stereotypes and creates culture shocks. When people are insulated and isolated in their own countries, they appear foolish when they encounter people from the world outside what they think of as “normal.”

After I arrived in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, a bank officer asked if I would like to apply for a credit card or a loan. Perhaps, I said. “I just have a few questions for you,” the newly-installed credit officer from rural India asked me. He appeared a bit unsure and nervous. “I see that you work at a university and are a teacher,” he observed. “What’s your caste?” he asked.

“Excuse me?” I responded, puzzled.

“What’s your caste?” he repeated.