Blog Post #5 – Differences is Time Measurement Across the World

Inquiry Question: What is time, and why does its existence make us revolve around its complex concept?

Research Step 3 – Does the fact that time can be measured differently in other parts of the universe make us question the validity of this topic altogether? Why did patterns in the galaxy combined with the human biology translate to such a central but intangible aspect of life?

Time is an incredibly fascinating central theme to the planet, and all things that coincide with human schedule, circadian rhythm, and ability to manage tasks (1). In pressure-filled North America, time is everything from planning events, managing the workload at school or work, etc. (1) However, simply relocating to a place such as Brazil prompts you to find that this part of the world is much more relaxed when it comes to tasks to be completed in a certain amount of time (1). A key scenario where this difference is pertinent is the difference between a boardroom meeting in New York where every minute is meticulously accounted for vs. a meeting in Tokyo where the schedule revolves around the availability of the participants (1). This representation resembles a stark difference that proves time is what you make of it, treating it like a loose outline of what needs to get done serves as much more helpful to ease stressful scenarios (1).

For instance, Edward T. Halls method divides time in cyclical linear, and flexible proponents (2). Linear cultures, such as Anglo-Saxan communities and Germany stress the importance of linear and punctual themes around time and time management (2). These cultures often prioritize the importance of human relationship and mental health over rigid rules associated with strict deadlines, and endless bouts of productivity (2). Cyclical time cultures present within Asia and Africa see time as a repeating intangible aspect that coincides with the rhythm of nature (2) Understanding this divide in cultural standards around time is crucial to colaborate effectively (2).

Each culture goes about organizing the order of tasks and activities differently (3). This considers whether work comes before play, the timing of sleep, and whether socializing should come before something seemingly as important as a business meeting (3). Cultural norms also dictate the timing of transition between childhood to adulthood, as well as the timing of certain life events (3).

Additionally, cultures vary in their organization of clock time versus event time (3). Clock-related cultures place emphasis on organizing tasks based on the time showcased on a clock, increasing punctual around living and dying by activities done in a certain amount of time (3). The opposite end of the spectrum describes event time, categorized by the start and end times of a given event dictated by a mutual consensus settled upon by participating parties (3).

The contrasting ways in which different countries within the world settle beliefs around time circles back to Western and Eastern societies (4). While Western societies often go about time with the linear-oriented approach, Eastern cultures are not afraid to challenge the cyclic version (4). Western likes to emphasize efficiency and planning, while Eastern continues to value the nature of tradition and harmony within the concept of time (4). As continuously stated above, the differences in time use and management is inherently different among these cultures, with nuances spanning into various categories (4). Thanks to Richard Lewis, exploration of diverse attitudes around time from linear to cyclical have been created (4). His insights continue to shed light on the intricate relationship between culture and time, enhancing the idea of working together to select the best one regardless of the constraints (4).

In addition, concepts of polychronic vs monochronic time has been introduced to this scene (5). Polychronic describes a fluid approach to time management, fostering a multitude of events to occur at once (5). This coincides with the Eastern cyclical approach as it goes along with the priority focus being relationships instead of strict schedules (5). Things like rescheduling within group collaboration are frequently identified within polychronic environments (5). On the flip side, monochronic time goes along with a linear series of events that emphasizes the importance of a schedule (5). Going along with the Western ideology, this focus values hustle culture and productivity instead of valuing natural, individual progress (5).

All of this preaches the importance of understanding differences in time management without considering the ramifications that hustle culture and productivity continue to have within Western society (6). These rigid contraints don’t value variables like home language, education, age, gender, and income as shaping the way each human approaches the need for time management (6).

A study was conducted, providing a questionnaire with 35 scale rated questions that went along with six time perception methods: sense of purpose, structured routine, effective organization, present orientation, persistence, and global time perception (6). The research concluded that the results were staggeringly different amongst 804 participants from the same region in Gauteng (6). These results mainly varied due to different income levels and homelife across suburban as well as township areas (6).

Recognizing cultural differences about time management helps bridge the gap between conflicts that require de-stressing around time constraints to be dealt with accordingly (2). In a culture where diversity is increasingly valued, embracing differences in time management and appropriate usage enriches the human ability to work together effectively (2).

Citations

1. ‘The Perception of Time in Different Cultures’. Clockify Blog, https://clockify.me/blog/managing-time/time-perception/. Accessed 15 Feb. 2024.
2. Magazine, Brainz. ‘How Do The Different Cultures View Time Management?’ Brainz Magazine, 4 Nov. 2023, https://www.brainzmagazine.com/post/how-do-the-different-cultures-view-time-management.
3. ‘Time and Culture’. Noba, https://nobaproject.com/modules/time-and-culture. Accessed 15 Feb. 2024.
4. ‘How Different Cultures Understand Time’. Culturally Modified, https://culturallymodified.org/how-different-cultures-understand-time-best-of/. Accessed 15 Feb. 2024.
5. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/polychronic-time
6. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/307843813_The_cultural_differences_in_time_and_time_management_A_socio-demographic_approach