How Does Slovakia Differ to Western Culture?

Erik is a university graduate from Slovakia who is currently living in London. Here he reacts to an article about the differences between Slovakian and 'Western' life:

"A few months ago, I came across an article entitled ‘Is Slovakia Stuck in the 1950´s?'. It was written by Allan Stevo- an American who has been living in Slovakia for several years and has a good understanding about the everyday life. His article was a collection of interesting, though anecdotal, facts about Slovak customs and common practices that have become part and parcel of our daily routines. The article contains a healthy dose of criticism, much of which Slovaks were asking for. Yet in general, it seems that he likes Slovakia the way it is.

The article attempts to draw parallels with the American or Western way of life, and often comes out with something that may be interesting to the foreign reader, but rather commonplace for the majority of the Slovak population.

I feel that between the lines one could scribble out that in some aspects Americans could take after Slovaks, like, for example, the preservation of traditions such as family lunch on Sunday. The author likes the easygoing, even flippant attitude of Slovaks manifested in their approach to booze, which, I feel might have a negative impact on the social and economical development. In general, in each nation he has discovered some values that the other should take home.

In my commentary I do not want to criticize the author, but provide my opinion on some of the issues. From each point I have chosen one sentence which does not necessarily convey the central point of the argument, but I which found interesting. Below is a taste of my commentary, with more to come in my next post:

Quote: "On one's property, it's interesting to note that little more than one's skimpy underwear is sometimes worn by both sexes when working out in the sun in Slovakia."

This is true, and in most cases rather embarrassing to see even the "less in shape" people wearing swimsuits or shorts. But on the other hand, don't complain about one's private property, where he can wear and do anything he likes. However, such "beach boy" garments are often also tolerated in some public places, for example market places or summer festivals.

I still think this is better than seeing people with sun-burnt faces and forearms, but pale torsos and shoulders because of overexposing themselves to the sun whilst still wearing a t-shirt. When I was in London, I saw people walk into a supermarket wearing only shorts, but the difference was, that these guys were in good shape, with at least signs of a "six-pack" and toned muscles.

Part two of Erik's reaction to the article will be coming soon. Meanwhile, you can read more posts by Erik here. 

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