DISTINCTIONS BETWEEN THE EAST COAST AND THE WEST COAST
There have long been perceived differences between the cultures of the West Coast of the United States and the East Coast. The East Coast is perceived as more formal and rigid, while the West Coast is largely perceived as informal and liberal. The cultural differences certainly arise from the differences in the histories that each coast hasùthe East Coast was largely settled by the English and Dutch while the West Coast was largely settled by the Spanish. These cultural differences persist to this day, with the West Coast's proximity to Mexico and the large number of Hispanics who live there. However, there are differences among the northern and southern regions of both coasts, and similarities between the two coasts, as well. This research considers the regional distinctions between the two coasts, and considers whether the two coasts are becoming more homogeneous as the nation matures.
With respect to working, the East Coast is generally perceived as more formal, with environments that do not encourage so-called employee-friendly perks such as taking one's dog to work or on-site massages. In part, this is due to the culture of the office environmentùthe "campus" originated on the West Coast with sprawling green spaces and a more relaxed attitude toward dress and culture, particularly since the West Coast has a milder climate than that in the East (Trager 27).
The East Coast has also been perceived as slower to accept the high-technology innovations that are commonly characterized by the West Coast's Silicon Valley. The West Coast business culture might even be described as "cowboy"ùindependent and high spirited, while the East Coast might be described as more "mannerly," at least according to some analysts. This is increasingly changing, however, as there is more interaction between the two coasts (Pham ITEM00312091).
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