Singapore Hawker Centers

Population 4.5 million (July 2006 est.) sq km - slightly more than 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC Singapore was founded as a British trading colony in It joined the Malaysian Federation in 1963 but separated two years later and became independent. It subsequently became one of the world's most prosperous countries with strong international trading links (its port is one of the world's busiest in terms of tonnage handled) and with per capita GDP equal to that of the leading nations of Western Europe.

Mix of various cultural and ethnic groups – all headed to a unique eating center, the Hawker Center. Integration of variety, efficiency, tremendous energy, safety, and a symbiosis of the old and the new. Chinese (77%), Malays (14%), Indians (8%); High population density Govt encourages collectivism – govt housing - Ethnic diversity but unity Govt encourages ethnic groups to coexist – in the spirit of international competition – program called “Shared Values” – ideals: place society above self; uphold family as basic building block; resolve conflict through consensus; racial and religious tolerance. They end up being competitive collectivists. Instead of Kiasu-ness, “the ugly American”.

Efficiency: order quickly; niceties not necessary among Singaporeans; technology runs society; they tend to deemphasize leisure; Single Desperate Ugly, speed dating events Power of Women – as likely to hold high positions as men Safety – lots of fines – strict control by govt; high degree of collectivism but also high degree of power distance