18 things non-Americans don’t understand about American culture
Now, as an American, I’m still obsessed with reading what we do that non-Americans find weird. And I understand, we do a lot of things that only make sense to us!
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And yesterday, Reddit user celestial_introvertt demand this same question to Request Reddit community: “What will you never understand as a non-American?” “
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Of course, the thread quickly went viral, with thousands of responses. Here are some of the best comments non-Americans have for the good ol ‘America:
1.“Why don’t they use the metric system! And something else: WHY THE FUCK is first the month then the day ???”
2.“The importance of sports at university.”
3.“Homecoming. Could someone explain what a ‘homecoming’ is?
4.“HOAs. They aren’t really something where I am and it baffles me that people aren’t allowed to do certain things in their homes.”
5.“Having on average only 10 days of annual leave. And sometimes even being looked down upon for taking it.”
6.“Does not include tax on retail items – so if something is $ 20 on the price tag, it could be $ 21.50 when you get to the counter.” It doesn’t make sense to include it before so people can withdraw change if they need it. It’s not a big deal if you’re paying by card, but still. “
7.“Tipping culture.”
8.“Some Americans (editor’s note: I say some, I am not generalizing here) total lack of knowledge of other parts of the world, for example I have seen things like Africa designated as a country, people who do not know Paris is in France, etc. It just seems weird to me. “
9.“Giant drinks intended for one person to drink.”
ten.“The fact that so many people don’t want universal health care.”
11.“How obsessed you are with politics and integrate it into everyday life.”
“Oh, he does (something I don’t agree with), must be a Democrat!” I have an aunt there and all she does is ramble on and on and on Facebook about Democrat this, Republican that, Liberal, Conservative blah, blah. is it so important? “
12.“How long are the daily commutes in the United States. Some Americans really think it’s okay to drive a few hours for work.”
13.“Why they always assume everyone sees things through American eyes.”
14.“Beauty contest for children.”
15.“What I will never be able to figure out is this: how completely normal can it be for you, the folks that Amazon leaves the package at your door ???”
16.“Why are children under social pressure to leave their parents’ home at 18?”
17.“The World Series. Why is it called that? “
And finally…
18.“Why the public restrooms have this little space between the doors that allows people to look you in the eye when you… you know, take a shit.” “
You can read the full response thread at Reddit.
Note: Some answers have been edited for length and / or clarity.