Western and Muslim Standards

Western And Muslim Standards of Conduct in Public

Even in the 21st century, standards of conduct in public places are not the same in every country and culture. These differences are usually based on religion and mentality. Moreover, it is not only in general understanding of manners it is about traditions of dressing, attitude to the alcohol, feelings expression and even tone and timbre of dialogues in public places. For instance a behavior which seems to be normal and socialy acceptable in western society, can be immorally or even illegal in Muslim countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Sudan, Bahrain, Qatar and Afghanistan. This paper will define mane aspects of the standards of conduct in public places, which differs western and Muslim societies.

The first aspect is clothing and dress. Although in western democratic and multinational countries, people are able to dress to their own taste and style. In many countries, the only legal limitation about dressing prohibits publicly exposing of genitals. Usually a violation leads to administrative responsibility.

Nevertheless, in Muslim countries many elements of common women looks: short skirts uncovered shoulders, deep necklines even bare legs to the knee or arms up to the elbows, and graphic designs which could appear insulting to their culture are not legitimate. According to their traditions, the women have to be modest. Common cloth is hijab. Moreover, in some countries “daughters of Eve” are not even allowed to show their faces. Of course, there are exactions for tourists but some frank elements are not legal for everyone (Eloren).

The second aspect is alcohol. In western society, alcoholic drinks are absolutely legal. To start selling business all people need is a license, which is not difficult to get. The only limitation for buyers is an age. For example, in United States alcohol cannot be sold to anyone who is under 21 years old; in Europe these restrictions are for customers under 18.

Considering Arab countries, attitude to the alcohol is different, as Koran does not allow it. Muslims do not drink it because it is against their religion. That is why some countries such as Qatar do not let anyone bring alcohol into the country, tourists have to leave it at the airport and get it on the way out of the country. Other countries have more tolerant attitude to drinks. For example in Afghanistan are specific, shops where tourist can buy a limited amount of the alcohol. In addition, one can bring two litters into the