17/02/2022
Every culture has its own code of conduct or habits and so has Germany. Being in every day contact with German nationals in the Ruhr Metropolis quickly reveals simple rituals and manners of behaviour.
Tradition is the written or verbal passing on of customs, capabilities or knowledge. These can be scientific, concern fairy tales, myths and religions as well as crafts. They are passed on through peer groups or between generations. They help define cultures and societies, helping form their heritage.
Some behaviour in Germany may appear strange to anyone who is not familiar with them. Even their advanced, collective attitude on the environment that became widespread in society was considered unique in its early days.
Most would know that on the first day of April a family member, friend or colleague will play a trick on them. But why might a man sweep away straw on the steps of city hall? Some such customs share hundreds of years of tradition and many Germans no longer aware of them nor from where they originate.
Language curiosities
A delightful, subliminal element of the German psyche can come to the fore during discussions on a tangible topic. Imagine you state something you know to be true to the person with whom you are in conversation. They may retort with the German words “das weis ich nicht“, which translates into “I don’t know that“. Notably, they do not state “das wusste ich nicht” or “I didn’t know that”. A highly fascinating phenomenon, which occurs often in various ways.
Another quirk is the official speak used on signage. Examples are in abundance, especially when buildings or roads are being reconstructed. Typically a sign will proudly state “wir bauen für Sie“, which means “we are building for you“. Your writer’s inner self always resists upon reading those words, since I had not asked them to. They may be creating something that benefits me too, however they cannot pass the buck to me, nor you, for any inconvenience caused.
Punctuality
One of the most recognisable characteristic traits of Germans is punctuality. If they fix a time they are serious about it and do their best to be on time. Great stress is put on punctuality with other virtues such as reliability and good organisational skills are often associated with it.
Some expats may, however, notice two quirks. In some circles there is a phenomenon known as the academic quarter of an hour, theoretically allowing highly frustrating unpunctuality. Presenters at business functions often wait for the stragglers thus frustrating the vast majority of punctual attendees. The opposite can be the case at social functions where many invitees appear far too early.
There's more, such as Shaking Hands, Motor vehicles, The weather, Steps and doorknobs, Twenty-fifth birthdays and, my favourite, Coffee and Cake.
Any offerings?
https://ruhr.amazingcapitals.com/the-location/society-folk/customs-habits/
Every culture has its own code of customs and habits, so too Germany. Codes of conduct is visible in everyday life and streets in the Ruhr.
