Group 2

Lại Tài Đức

CULTURE
UK
Portfolio Edition
 Key
Cultural
Aspects of
the UK
The United Kingdom boasts a rich and diverse
culture shaped by its long history, geographical
location, and the influence of various cultures
worldwide. Understanding these key aspects
provides valuable insight into British society.
The Foundations of British
Communication
"British interactions emphasize
politeness and courtesy, with
frequent use of "please," "thank
you," and "sorry." Humility is
common; boasting is avoided,
often seen as cultural decorum.
Respecting personal space
during conversations is also
key."
 Key Social N or ms
and Humo u r

Beyond basic politeness, several social norms shape interactions in Britain. Punctuality is highly valued;
being on time for appointments and engagements is considered a sign of respect and reliability. You'll
also encounter the distinct queuing culture, where forming orderly lines is the standard practice in a
wide range of situations. Perhaps one of the most characteristic elements is British humour. This often
involves wit, irony, and subtle sarcasm. It's usually not intended to be mean-spirited but rather a form
of playful social interaction. Understanding these nuances, alongside the foundational politeness, will
greatly enhance your ability to navigate social situations in Britain.
 Food and
drink
On the Continent people have good
food; in England people have good
table manners. (George Mikes,
humourisc and Hungarian émigré to
Britain)

You can’t trust people who cook as

ts
here isn't very focused
on food, lacking a
strong restaurant or
café culture

attit
udes
Historically, British food has received
little focus, even at home. Instant
coffee dominates, meals are quick,
and celebrations aren't food-centric.
When attention is paid, it's often for
health reasons, evidenced by
vegetarianism and health food stores.
While awareness and interest in
quality are growing (as seen with
Jamie Oliver's school dinner
campaign and supermarket diversity),
deeply ingrained habits and low
expectations persist in everyday
eating. The "Make it a meal"
mentality – equating a sandwich with
a fizzy drink and chocolate bar –
perhaps encapsulates this lingering
attitude.
 Eating out
Historical Shift: Eating out was once a luxury, now more
common.
Lingering Snobbery: Status can outweigh food quality in
some restaurants.
Non-English Menus: Often French names, except for
puddings (a British strength).
Scarcity of "British" Restaurants: Historically, diners
sought "ethnic" options.
Dominance of "Ethnic" Cuisine: Italian, Indian, Chinese,
and Thai are widespread.
Distinct British Eateries:Greasy Spoons: Fried food,
informal, often for manual workers.
Fish & Chip Shops: Takeaway, fried fish.
Tea Rooms: Daytime, light snacks, waitress service.
Fast Food Popularity: Affordability and lack of social
pretension are key factors.
Alcohol And Pubs
lcohol is deeply rooted in British culture with
moderate drunkenness often accepted. Yet,
a puritanical view frames drinking as
dangerous, leading to restrictions. Despite
lower consumption than some in Europe,
teenage drinking is a key concern. Pubs are
central to drinking, unlike cafes or home.
Relaxed laws face health/safety worries.
"Booze cruises" show price sensitivity.
More than just a bar, the British pub is a
classless social hub, offering a relaxed, "home
from home" feel for socializing, even with
strangers. Unlike other eateries, lingering
conversation is welcome. The "local" is a vital
community center, often featured in popular
culture. While evolving beyond just beer, pubs
retain key traits: bar service, games, and
traditional names, reinforcing history and
belonging as a cornerstone of British social
life.
Arts, Entertainment, and
Sports
Music: A rich musical history spanning classical to pop, rock, and contemporary
genres.
Literature: Home to world-renowned writers like William Shakespeare, Jane
Austen, and Charles Dickens.
Theatre: Drama holds a significant place, especially in London's West End.
Museums and Galleries: Many free institutions attract both locals and tourists.
Sports: Football is the national sport, alongside the popularity of cricket, rugby,
tennis, and horse racing.
 Social Values and
Beliefs

The UK places a high value on respect for individuality, emphasizing privacy and personal space in daily
interactions. Volunteerism is also deeply ingrained, with significant respect given to those who contribute to their
communities. A notable characteristic is the strong love for animals, particularly dogs and cats, often considered
part of the family. The Royal Family continues to hold symbolic importance, representing tradition and national
identity. Furthermore, the UK is a vibrant multicultural nation, home to a diverse range of ethnic and religious
communities. While Christianity has historical roots, the country actively embraces religious diversity, reflecting its
inclusive social fabric."
CONCLUSION
the culture of the United Kingdom is a fascinating tapestry woven
from historical traditions and contemporary influences. Its emphasis
on politeness, unique sense of humour, appreciation for the arts,
and increasingly diverse society all contribute to its distinctive
character on the global stage."