(no subject)
Questions:
#4: Russian, Chinese, and Mongolian are the most predominately spoken languages in Mongolia, though English is widely used in Ulaanbaatar today. Mongolia suffered under Manchu rule for several centuries and during this time Chinese became a popular language to learn in addition to Mongolian. This has since changed with the older population retaining knowledge of Chinese language while the younger population was influenced heavily by Russia. During the period of Soviet influence, when Mongolia became a soviet satellite, Russian was mandatory in schools, government, and in most social settings. Because many young people were sent to Russian Universities to study medicine and other trades, it was expected that all students were to speak Russian.
#7: Animals are hardly romanticized though the general consensus is one of respect and humility. Because of the extreme climate in Mongolia, people understand the necessity and respect the role that animals come to play in their every day life. Camels and horses are especially valued, though they are still used as a source of protein in their diets. Mongolians have a very pragmatic view of the roles every individual plays in life and although they still slaughter animals for food, they acknowledge the importance of these animals contribution to their survival.
#11: Women in Mongolia are considered to have the most individual rights in all of Asia. Women are now present in parliament and even in the court of Genghis Khan a man was considered foolish if he did not consult his wife in making big decisions. During this time marrying an older woman was very desirable because it was believed that older women would be wiser and a more balanced partner for men.
#15: Food in the Mongolian countryside is primarily composed of meat and dairy products. Because of the extreme climate, fruits and vegetables are practically nonexistent and have only recently become available through importing goods from China. Mutton is the most common source of meat though horse, yak, and even camel is consumed. Dairy products are composed primarily of fermented milk and curds derived from the remaining products in Airmag. The whole family sits together for meals but men and/or guests are usually served first.
#16: Taboos traditionally include passing food with your left hand and speaking about traditional arrangements such as marriage. Alcoholism is also widely accepted and it is not considered appropriate to chastise men for their intake.
#22: Departures are usually abrupt and it is considered strange for individuals to greet one another after a short time apart. ‘Good-bye’ is reserved for long partings and departures which may mean they will not see you again. It is uncommon to say goodbye while leaving for a while.
#28: Many people outside of Mongolian culture find it frustrating that Mongolians are rarely ever on time. When told ‘we will meet at 4pm’ it generally means that any time after 4pm is acceptable to meet.
#40: Medical services became very limited after the withdrawal of Soviet support in 1990. Now most individuals cannot afford medical services although modern facilities exist in Ulaanbaatar for those who can afford it.
#41: A common home remedy is airmag which is used for most “under the weather” symptoms. Medicine is imported from China and most supplies are widely available in facilities in the capital for those who can afford them.
#47: The predominant religion is Tibetan Buddhism so most people subscribe to a more zen philosophy. In general, Mongolians are considered to be very tolerant and Muslims and sects of Shamanism still exist in the countryside.
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My score was 57 points but I feel that I could still improve in the areas of "tolerance for ambiguity" and "low task/goal orientation."