Applying third-culture building theory a critical study

Abstract

This study attempts to apply the theory of third-culture building to a social experience of interaction between communicators with different cultural backgrounds. Casmir defined a third-culture as a "situational subculture wherein temporary behavioral adjustments can be made by the interacting persons as they attempt to reach a mutually agreed upon goal(s)" (1989, p. 294). Although much has been written about the theory, including published critiques and evaluation at communication conferences, no attempt has been made to apply it empirically. This study attempts to apply the theory to interaction between foreign visitors and taxicab drivers in Singapore.