Chinese and north Americans: An epistemological exploration of intercultural communication

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Abstract
Based on relevant works from various disciplines (rhetoric, sociology, cognitive science, linguistics, and anthropology), this article proposes that the external world, known through species‐specific human mental capabilities, has provided all cultures with almost identical basic knowledge mutating into several structures of consciousness. It is argued that this process of knowing renders communication possible among people from diverse cultures, despite their differences. Within this theoretical frame, a qualitative analysis is offered to contrast the Chinese with the North American cultures, tracing down to a ground common to both. Three basic domains—time, space, and ego, relating to views on nature, the individual, and society— are examined in order to establish a connection to cultural traditions/conventions for social interaction. Further examination of data from interviews and participant observations locates some common difficulties in intercultural interaction between Chinese and North Americans and suggests epistemic roots as keys to potential understanding. It concludes with directions for further studies.

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