Culture: A key to management communication between the Asian-Pacific area and Europe

Western culture, and therefore Western management methods and thinking, has devalued other cultures, and it has been assumed that the high culture of dominant nations has taken over. But this is not so; cultures of everyday life are complex and not easily destroyed. They are also systems in motion, that can adapt easily. Tzöl Zae Chung explains the striking differences between Asian and European thinking and ways of managing and doing business. Misunderstandings can occur if two cultures meet without adequate prior preparation. But increasingly, Japanese management methods are revitalizing Asian values and attracting attention. The cultural factor in globalization -- especially in the 'triad' of trade between the US, the Asian-Pacific region and Europe is becoming critically important.