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Thomas Felix Creighton has worked in Turkish Cyprus, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UK, and China. Here, he sets out three models for understanding the different working cultures in different countries, and illustrates them with some of his own experiences.

First, Derek Silvers’ 2 minute 38 second TED Talk, drawing particularly on his experience in Japan. A quick and very basic look at 'weird or just different', which is nonetheless a good starting point, and a good reminder for more 'advanced expats'.

http://www.ted.com/talks/derek_sivers_weird_or_just_different

Then, the six Hofstede Dimensions:

1. Small Vs Large Power Distance
2. Individualism Vs Collectivism
3. Masculinity Vs Femininity
4. High Vs Low Uncertainly Avoidance
5. Long Vs Short Term Orientation
6. Indulgence vs. Restraint

Thirdly, Thomas then looks at 'the Silent Language' by Edward T Hall:

1. Language of Time
2. Language of Space
3. Language of Things
4. Language of Friendship
5. Language of Agreements

Finally, some final reflections on ‘weird or just different’.

If you find this podcast interesting, in any way, please do share your thoughts with Thomas at the website below or by e-mail: albionneverdies@gmail.com

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Don't be shy, send me a message!

Thomas Felix Creighton shares his experiences from a month in Chengdu (Sichuan Province, China). He previously lived in Shenzhen (Guangdong Province) 2015-2021 and Turkish Cyprus 2001-2008 – he draws on both these experiences as he discusses how experience, language ability, and the company we keep can shape our perceptions of culture. Naturally, he talks about some Chengdu highlights a little, so skip to the end if that’s what you are primarily interested… or listen to the whole thing and enjoy the ride!

Thomas recommends:

Daniel Gaster: his Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DanielGaster

The jacket review Thomas mentions: https://fromtailorswithlove.co.uk/james-bonds-no-time-to-die-massimo-alba-rain-2-duster-coat-review

Daniel Gaster's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielgaster

Caine: Film reviews and a video diary of a visit to small Chinese city, so if you enjoyed this podcast episode, do check these two Youtube videos out:

Caine’s Anqing (China) diary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qtGLk3cY7A

Caine’s review of a Chinese movie that delves into the meaning of 'memory' and how it shapes who we are. The review Thomas 100% recommends: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=6ugQHJw2IdI

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Thomas Felix Creighton draws upon six years in China and knowledge of Ian Fleming's James Bond 007 to give an insight into how the series has merged fact and fiction, for the most part without friction.

Books, websites, and movies mentioned:

• The World of Suzie Wong by Richard Mason
• Thrilling Cities by Ian Fleming
• Dr No by Ian Fleming
• Tong Wars: The Untold Story of Vice, Money, and Murder in New York's Chinatown by Scott D. Seligman
• The Good Immigrants: How the Yellow Peril Became the Model Minority by Madeline Y. Hsu
• The Encyclopedia of Milwaukee [website]: https://emke.uwm.edu/entry/chinese/
• Goldfinger by Ian Fleming (plus the movie with Sean Connery)
• You Only Live Twice by Ian Fleming (Thomas talks more about the movie though)
• The Man With the Golden Gun (just the movie with Roger Moore and Christopher Lee)
• For Your Eyes Only, movie directed by John Glen (see the 'Albion Never Dies' podcast episode released 17/12/2024)
• License to Kill (movie)
• Tomorrow Never Dies (movie)
• Zero Minus Ten by Raymond Benson (also, check out the 'Albion Never Dies' podcast episode #179)
• Die Another Day (movie)
• Skyfall (movie)

...and these are just the key ones. Plenty more 007 and China references out there, I am sure.

Support the show

https://www.albionneverdies.com/