Drastic Differences between Turkish and American Culture

     Being a TCK (Third Culture Kid), we often are able to see cultural differences between the countries we are from and are living in. There are many differences including food, family/friends and religion.

     One great cultural difference there is between America and Turkey is religion. Turkey has a religious background of Islam, with a huge population of Muslims. They are very traditional in the sense that, if you're Turkish, you're practically born a Muslim. America, on the other hand, does not quite have the solid religious background of one religion. It also may be because of how tolerant Americans are of other religions. Furthermore, due to Turkey's strong religious background in Islam, this is also reflected through dress. In most places in Turkey, where you will find a Mosque and Muslims, you will also find very conservatively dressed people; especially women. Women often wear scarves to cover their heads and long skirts, which is required by Islam. Although in America, the dress is far more scandalous, women wear low cut shirts, and short shorts or mini skirts. As Ross W.- put it, "Because of their[Turkey] huge religious influences, Turkish people as a whole dress more conservatively than the majority of the American population. "
     Even little things like food can have a difference. In Turkey, home cooked food is most likely home-grown, especially if you live in villages; even going to the supermarkets, almost all the food is organic. Whereas America, you must pay more to get organic food, and unless its labeled organic, it most likely has additives in it. Turkish food is quite traditional too; they made it many years ago and still make it today. Kendall M.- commented, "Turkey has more traditional food; America gets its food from every part of the world." In America, you can find any type of food: Chinese, Mexican, Italian. What really is 'American food'?
     The biggest cultural difference that I see is the hospitality in Turkey. Everyone is everyone else's neighbor. Almost any Turk off the street would help you if you needed it. They are so open to friendship and are very loving people. "Turkish people are very hospitable and treat you like family," Julie A.- replied when asked about Turkey's culture. They respect each other and take care of one another. Americans are nice to an extent, but they don't go the extra mile like the Turks do. Americans often think for themselves and not much for others, but just watch their own back. In Turkey, if you offend one family member, you're offending the whole family. Andrew B.- said, "Turks have more respect for the weak people and help each other if they need it."