When we think of Western cultures, the tendency is to lump Europeans and White Americans into the same category. This is a common but misguided simplification. As a West African, the nuances and complexities of European cultures are strikingly evident, and they diverge significantly from what we see in America. Understanding these differences requires delving into history, culture, and the unique identities that shape each group. This understanding is crucial, not just for the sake of knowledge, but for navigating human interactions in a globalized world.
The Anglo-Saxon and Latin Divide: Pragmatism vs. Tradition
Take, for instance, the fundamental differences between Anglo-Saxon and Latin cultures. My great uncle, Timothée Ahoua Ngetta, former Ivorian ambassador to the USA from 1966 until 1982,once explained to me that Anglo-Saxons, typically represented by the British and their descendants, are pragmatic to a fault. If they see a system or idea failing, they quickly abandon it in favor of something more efficient. This is perhaps why former British colonies, like Ghana ,Nigeria and South Africa , have, in some ways, managed to carve out a more independent and forward-looking path post-independence.
On the other hand, the Latins—French, Spanish, Italians—are more inclined to hold onto tradition, even when it no longer serves them. This is evident in the lingering ties between former French colonies and France, where the colonial past still casts a long shadow. Whether it’s the enduring use of the French language, currency, or economic dependency, these connections are stronger than those seen in ex-British colonies.
This distinction also manifests in how these cultures approach everything from infrastructure to social behavior. France’s historical buildings and infrastructure are celebrated, preserved, and often seen as untouchable. In contrast, England, and by extension the U.S., is always in a state of renewal and improvement. As Aristotle observed in his reflections on civilization, “Some are marked out for subjection, others for rule… It is evident, then, that some men are by nature free, and others slaves, and that for these latter, slavery is both expedient and right.” This hierarchy of thought has often shaped European cultures’ approach to governance and society, justifying long-standing traditions even when they no longer serve the present.
2. The Slavic Spirit: Resilience Through Struggle
When we turn our gaze to the Slavic peoples—Russians, Poles, Czechs—we see a history defined by hardship and resilience.
Slavic cultures have often been on the frontlines of conflict, whether against invading empires or oppressive regimes. This has bred a certain toughness, a stoicism that is often misunderstood by outsiders as coldness or detachment.
But it’s this very resilience that has allowed them to produce some of the finest engineers, scientists, and artists. Their ability to endure and innovate in the face of adversity is nothing short of remarkable.
3.German Precision: Engineering a Better Future
Then there’s the Germanic approach to life—order, precision, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Germany’s reputation for engineering excellence, particularly in automotive and industrial design, is no accident. It stems from a cultural emphasis on discipline, hard work, and meticulous attention to detail. The German language itself, with its compound words and logical structure, reflects this mindset. It’s no surprise that Germany has produced some of the world’s greatest thinkers in physics, philosophy, and economics.
In the words of Sigmund Freud, “The liberty of the individual is no gift of civilization. It was greatest before there was any civilization.”
Freud’s critique of the constraints imposed by European civilization echoes in the German approach to systems and structures, where order often takes precedence over individual freedom, yet it’s this very order that has propelled them to the forefront of innovation and scientific discovery.
Germans also embrace realism more and more over the religious thinking.
4. The Scandinavian Model: Sustainability and Social Cohesion
Scandinavia offers yet another model—one that is rooted in sustainability, social cohesion, and a deep respect for nature. Countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Norway have long been pioneers in social welfare, gender equality, and environmental protection. Their early adoption of green technologies, such as wind energy, and the widespread use of bicycles as transportation, are reflections of a culture that values the long-term well-being of its citizens and the planet.
The Scandinavian emphasis on simplicity and minimalism is not just a design aesthetic; it’s a way of life that prioritizes function over form and substance over style. Their approach to education, healthcare, and social services is arguably the most progressive in the world, making them leaders in creating equitable and sustainable societies.
The Netherlands, while not Scandinavian, shares many of these progressive traits. The Dutch have historically been merchants, explorers, and innovators, which has given them a unique blend of pragmatism and liberalism. Their approach to social issues, urban planning, and environmental sustainability is often ahead of its time, making Dutch cities some of the most livable in the world. The Dutch model bridges the Anglo-Saxon and Latin worlds, combining the best of both—innovation with tradition, progress with preservation.
5. Ireland: The Voice of the Oppressed
Lastly, the Irish experience is one of solidarity with the oppressed. Having suffered under British colonial rule, experienced famine, and faced mass emigration, the Irish have a natural empathy for those who struggle for self-determination and freedom.
This is why Ireland has often been at the forefront of supporting causes like Palestinian statehood. The Irish identity is deeply connected to a history of resistance, making them natural allies of those fighting against oppression.
Conclusion: Understanding the Complexity of Human Identity
Humans, whether in Europe, America, Africa, or elsewhere, are complex beings shaped by history, culture, and geography. The differences between Europeans and white Americans are profound, reflecting distinct historical experiences and cultural values. While these distinctions are fascinating and important to understand, they also remind us that categorizing people based on race or nationality often oversimplifies the richness of human identity.
History doesn’t just explain the past; it shapes our present and influences our future. By understanding these differences, we can navigate human interactions more effectively, with greater empathy and awareness. In a world where globalization often blurs the lines between cultures, recognizing and respecting these differences is crucial. My hope is that these reflections, enriched by the insights of philosophers like Aristotle and Freud, help you, the reader, to see the world through a more nuanced lens and to engage with others in a way that honors the complexity of our shared human experience.
Thanks for reading
CSL47
Comments