It has withstood the test of time!
- Elizabeth Elmer
- May 13
- 2 min read
Back in the early 1970s, I was privileged to take a master’s course with one of the leading voices in Applied Linguistics at the University of Southern California—Dr. Robert Kaplan.
Little did I know that over 50 years later, his findings would still be shaping how we teach, learn, and write in English across cultures.
Today, when I coach clients on crafting professional emails and business writing in English, I still quote Dr. Kaplan. His insights are just that relevant.
🧠 What were his insights—and why do they still matter?
Dr. Kaplan’s classic 1966 essay, “Cultural Thought Patterns in Intercultural Education,” introduced the concept of contrastive rhetoric—the idea that different cultures have different ways of organizing ideas in writing.
Here are 5 key takeaways:
1️⃣ Writing Reflects Cultural LogicWriting structures are shaped by cultural norms—not just grammar or vocabulary.
2️⃣ English Favors a Linear, Direct StyleEspecially in academic or business contexts, English writing prioritizes clarity, order, and logic.
3️⃣ Other Cultures May Organize Ideas DifferentlyKaplan identified distinct rhetorical styles:
Semitic: Parallelism and repetition
Oriental (East Asian): Circular and indirect
Romance (Spanish/French): More digression and flourish
Russian/Slavic: Multi-perspective, sometimes digressive
Anglo-European: Thesis-first, linear development
4️⃣ These Differences Must Be AcknowledgedIt’s not about “right” or “wrong”—it’s about recognizing and adapting to different expectations.
5️⃣ Contrastive Rhetoric = Cultural AwarenessKaplan’s work helps bridge gaps and foster clearer communication in our global world.
📊 See the visual for Kaplan’s original diagram.
🤔 What does this mean for your communication in English?
Explore insights like these—and get practical tools for better English writing—in the ALL-NEW 10-Minute Fluency Club.
Visit:
Let’s grow fluent, confident, and culturally aware together.
Comments