Perception is a highly selective activity that is based on the various stimuli that each participant in a given situation receives, and how they respond to that stimuli. Internal states, interpretations, and transmitted messages all contribute to an individual's internal feedback, while external stimuli, including the external environment, contribute to the external outcome of a given situation.
Baker and Rennalls have very different internal perception sets stemming first from their cultural backgrounds, and then from their individual backgrounds. Baker has approached the situation as a European in a foreign country, and one who has a somewhat patronizing view of his employees. He prides himself on "breaking through" to the foreigners that work for him, regardless of the country in which he happens to be. What that "breaking through" actually means is that Baker prides himself on convincing the indigenous people that the European approach, or more specifically Baker's approach, is the best way to handle a situation.
This is not necessarily an incorrect way for Baker to approach his assignments in that any company has standards and procedures which all employees adhere to, and Baker is setting and maintaining those standards. However, his perception that the Barracania employees need special treatment, and his repeated references to that treatment, suggest that he does harbor some of the condescension that Rennalls eventually accuses him of. Baker would most likely be surprised if an objective third party were to confront him with charges that he harbors patronizing feelings toward his workers.
Rennalls, however, is also laboring under his own set of perceptions that put him at a disadvantage in the situation, as well, at least in terms of coming to an equitable understanding with Baker. Rennalls studied in England where he learned the technical aspects of his profession, and he has done well in Barracania and with the ...