Russia: Public Behaviour - Part 2
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Acceptable public conduct
Behaviour Considered “Nyekulturny” [Uncultured]
The Russian word “nyekulturny” is popularly used to refer to anything considered uncultured, bad mannered, or otherwise socially unacceptable. The following points are examples of behaviours regarded as “nyekulturny.”
Wearing your coat and/or winter boots in theatres, office buildings or similar public spaces is considered unacceptable. Cloakrooms are usually available and should be used. And sitting on your coat during a concert or while at a restaurant is also frowned upon.
Speaking or laughing loudly in public is discouraged.
Whistling in a home or other indoor spaces is considered “nyekulturny”, and there is even a superstition that it will cause a grave financial loss. Moreover, when attending a concert or other performance, refrain from including whistling in your applause.
Do not sit with the legs apart or with one ankle resting upon the knee.
It is insulting to summon someone with the forefinger. Instead, turn your hand so that the palm faces down and motion inward with all four fingers at once.
Many common hand gestures popularly used in the West, such as the “O.K.” sign or shaking the fist, are considered very rude.
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