Tahir, an Arab, and Jan, a Swede, meet at a dinner for international students. Since the cultures of the two men differ in regard to ________, both may feel uncomfortable during their conversation.
A) explicit laws
B) attitudes toward higher education
C) knowledge of North American etiquette
D) conversational distance

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Conversational distance is a cultural factor that refers to the acceptable physical distance between individuals while conversing. Different cultures have different norms regarding conversational distance, and violating these norms can make individuals feel uncomfortable. Therefore, since Tahir comes from an Arab culture and Jan from a Swede culture, their respective conversational distance cultural norms may differ, leading to potential discomfort during their conversation. The other options (explicit laws, attitudes toward higher education, and knowledge of North American etiquette) may also result in discomfort, but the question specifically mentions cultural differences, and conversational distance is the most appropriate option that directly relates to cultural differences.

Tahir, an Arab, and Jan, a Swede, Meet at a Dinner