The ability of intercultural communication

Abstract

The article presents a mechanism which enables the intercultural communication through improved methods and techniques of communication and the acquisition of the abilities of intercultural communication. Each individual is the bearer of patterns of thinking, feeling and potential manifestations, which he/she acquired along his/her life, and understanding the culture of the other facilitates communication. The intercultural communication refers to the communication between people whose cultural systems of perceptions and values are sufficiently different to alter/influence the process of communication between them. The ability of intercultural communication presumes an understanding of the way in which culture influences the expectations, behaviour and ability to recognise and use the cultural differences as resources to learn and solve the problems within different contexts. It also presumes the capacity for self-awareness and to use the abilities and techniques of communication in general. The article provides concrete aspects which can facilitate communication with people coming from different cultures.