■Argentinean Society and Culture
◆ Europeans or Latin Americans?
Most Argentines are mainly of European origin, which distinguishes them from other Latin American countries where European and Indian cultures are more intermingled. Culturally and emotionally, Argentines often appear more European than Latin American.
◆ Argentinean Family Values
The family is the core of Argentine life with extended families still being given importance. The heads of powerful families obtain widespread respect, but with this comes a duty to care for others in terms of security, jobs, etc. and to protect personal and family honor.
Honor is in all respects the almost important element and it routinely influences daily life at home, in the community and in business.
◆ Religion in Argentina
The Argentine constitution promises religious freedom. Roman Catholicism is the official state religion. Other world religions, especially Islam, are getting a foothold within the country during the last ten to fifteen years.
◆ Expressive Communication Style
◇Argentines are generally open, straightforward, and direct, yet are able to keep tactful and diplomatic.
◇Argentines are a friendly peoples and their unreservedness makes their passion and sentimentality prominent.
◇Moreover, when communicating they are physically close to each other, so they will often touch each other when speaking and keep little physical distance between speakers.
■General Etiquette and Customs
◆ Meeting Etiquette
◇Initial greetings are formal and adhere to a set protocol of greeting the most senior or important person first.
◇The common form of greeting is a standard handshake, with direct eye contact and a welcoming smile.
◇Maintaining eye contact shows interest.
◇Generally Argentines prefer intermediary introductions, so you should wait for your host or hostess to introduce you to others at a small gathering.