Informal conversation is an important part of any business relationship. Before you start a discussion, however, make sure you understand which topics are suitable and which are considered taboo (禁忌) in a particular culture. Latin Americans enjoy sharing information about their local history, art and customs. Expect questions about your family, and be sure to show pictures of your children. You may feel free to ask similar questions of your Latin American friends. The French think of conversation as an art form, and they enjoy the value of lively discussions as well as disagreements. For them, arguments can be interesting — and they can cover pretty much any topic — as long as they occur in a respectful and intelligent (智慧的) manner.

　　In the United States, business people like to discuss a wide range of topics, including opinions about work, family, hobbies and politics. In Japan, China and Korea, however, people are much more private. They do not share much about their thoughts, feelings, or emotions because they feel that doing so might take away from the harmonious (和谐的) business relationship they’re trying to build. Middle Easterners are also private about their personal lives and family matters. It is considered rude, for example, to ask a businessman from Saudi Arabia about his wife or children.

　　As a general rule, it’s best not to talk about politics or religion (宗教) with your business friends. This can get you into trouble, even in the United States, where people hold different views. In addition, discussing one’s salary is usually considered unsuitable. Sport is typically a friendly subject in most parts of the world, although be careful not to criticize a national sport. Instead, be friendly and praise your host’s team.

　　1. Why are people from Asia more private in their conversation with others?

　　A. They don’t want to talk with others much.

　　B. They don’t want to have a good relationship with others harmed by informal conversation.

　　C. They are afraid to argue with their colleagues.

　　D. They want to keep their feelings to themselves.

　　2. The author considers politics and religion ________.

　　A. cheerful topics B. taboo

　　C. rude topics D. topics that can never be talked about

　　3. Which is typically a friendly topic in most places according to the author?

　　A. Sports. B. Children.

　　C. Personal feelings. D. Families.

　　[答案与解析]

　　1. B。第二段第二、三句即本题答案出处。 2. B。 第三段第一句即本题答案出处。3. A。短文最后一段倒数第二句即本题答案出处。

　　(文/艾群；英语辅导报高三版2003-2004学年第7期；版权归英语辅导报社所有，独家网络合作伙伴新浪教育，未经许可，不得以任何形式进行转载。)