Culture plays an important role in shaping an individual's identity, beliefs and values. As a person of mixed heritage, I grew up in two distinct cultures that influenced me in various ways. In this essay, I will explore the values ​​and differences between my cultures, and how they have shaped my worldview. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay My mother is from Japan and my father is from the United States. Growing up, I was exposed to Japanese and American traditions, customs, and values. The stark differences between the two cultures presented me with unique perspectives and challenges, which ultimately shaped my identity and worldview. One of the most apparent differences between Japanese and American cultures is the concept of collectivism versus individualism. In Japanese culture, there is a strong emphasis on collective good, harmony within the community, and respect for authority. This is reflected in the values ​​of humility, self-discipline and conformity to social norms. On the other hand, American culture values ​​individualism, independence, and personal freedom. The emphasis on self-expression, assertiveness, and personal achievement is ingrained in the American mentality. Another significant difference lies in the perception of time. In Japan, punctuality and precision are highly valued. Time is seen as a limited resource and being late is seen as disrespectful. In contrast, American culture is more relaxed about time, and often accommodates flexibility and spontaneity. This difference taught me to appreciate the importance of time management and the value of punctuality, while accepting the flexibility and adaptability that American culture offers. Additionally, the concept of hierarchy and authority is distinct in both cultures. In Japan, there is great respect for elders, hierarchical structures, and deference to those in positions of power. This is evident in language, behavior and social interactions within Japanese society. In contrast, American culture places more emphasis on equality, meritocracy, and questioning authority. This taught me how to navigate and respect hierarchical and egalitarian structures, depending on the cultural context. Despite these differences, there are also shared values ​​between Japanese and American cultures. Both cultures place a high value on education, hard work, and the pursuit of success. The emphasis on academic success, dedication to one's career, and perseverance in the face of challenges is a common thread that runs through both cultures. Additionally, the importance of family, community, and hospitality are deeply ingrained in Japanese and American cultures. Living between these two cultures has allowed me to appreciate the beauty of diversity and embrace a multicultural identity. I learned to navigate the values ​​and differences between my cultures, integrating the best of both worlds into my own belief system. I also developed a heightened sense of empathy, open-mindedness, and adaptability as a result of my exposure to contrasting cultural norms and values. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get Custom Essay In conclusion, the values ​​and differences between my Japanese and American cultures have profoundly shaped my identity. I learned to appreciate the nuances of both cultures, adopting the..