Communication is an important part of everyday life and, as such, present at all

times. However, its perpetual presence often implies simplicity and mutual

understanding. Such forgone conclusions have put businessmen around the

world into numerous delicate situations. Many of these situations have provided

the basis for, more or less helpful, books on cultural etiquette. After having read

various guidebooks on how to behave on a businesstrip to a foreign country,

one question still remains: What is the source of cultural misunderstandings?

The anthropologists Edward T.Hall and Geert Hofstede conducted most of the

research on cultural differences in communication. As it is a vast topic, this

seminar paper will focus on the differences in high-context and low-context

communication styles across cultures and their influence on the way people

perceive information. In order to create a common understanding, the first part

of the seminar paper will deal with the definition of used terms. The second part

will provide information on the role of culture in communication. At this point,

culturally affected areas of communication will be identified. Furthermore, the

differences in communication styles, as well as the perception of information

across cultures will be described. The last chapter will be dedicated to the main

causes for intercultural misunderstandings.