Walking through a city in the US is very much like walking through a city in Canada; one will see many of the same stores, malls, services and conveniences in each. The fundamental differences are more within, in the psyche of those who have grown up living in one country or another. Such experience vastly influences an individual's understanding of themselves, their country and the broader world stage.

Having lived the past 3 years in the US, after spending decades growing up, living and working in Canada, I am able to offer the perspective of the following experience living in both countries:

The sheer size and mass population of the US offers Americans almost limitless opportunity to explore their own country and for the most part, Americans take great advantage of doing so, preferring to vacation in the US (Hawaii, Arizona, California, Florida etc). This, coupled with the fact that the majority of American news (TV and newspapers) focuses on either US news or US related news (ie. places where American troops are stationed) gives Americans a narrow view of the world. Canadians on the other hand are more globally minded and thus, more broadly travelled. Their news outlets, both television and newspapers, reflect this global mindset. Adjusting to the lack of international news offered in the US was a striking aspect of our move here.

Canada views itself (with pride) as a welcoming, open, multi-cultural country, one which seeks to embrace the cultures of others who choose to call Canada home. This is not without its difficulties, however, for the most part people from many cultures manage to work / live in close proximity. Having worked in both Vancouver and Toronto, I can definitely say that I have had far more interaction with people from the Middle East, Asia and Africa than I have ever had here. Perhaps were I to live in another part of the US, I would find a more diverse mix of cultures present.

In the states, on the other hand, I am more likely to be 'corrected' if I use a term that is not familiar here ie. saying 'holiday' rather than 'vacation' or I am reminded that my accent (which is noticeable only to a few) is amusing to others. Such comments serve to let me know, once again, that I am not native and that differences are not embraced nor necessarily welcome. The goal in the US is assimilation, not acceptance.

Of course, both countries enjoy vast freedoms with a generally high standard of living. Certainly there are many other countries in the world that can also say the same. Canadians are well aware of this fact. While proud of their country and their place in the world, Canadians are also proud of their foreign heritage and take many opportunities to travel, live and work abroad. Americans, on the other hand, truly believe they do live in 'the best' country in the world, bar none. Such patriotism underscores a level of pride that remains unbalanced by a lack of knowledge / interest in the world at large.

Such are some of the more fundamental differences between the mindsets of those who call Canada or the US home.

Learn more about this author, Lisa Lorenson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Comparing Canadian and American cultures?
We want to hear your view. Write now!