Why is culture like an iceberg? When we see an iceberg, the portion which is visible above water is, in reality, only a small piece of a much larger whole. Similarly, people often think of culture as the numerous observable characteristics of a group that we can *see* with our eyes, be it their food, dances, music, arts, or greeting rituals.
The term ‘Iceberg Model of Culture’ is inspired by the icebergs found in polar seas. An iceberg has visible parts on the surface of the water and invisible parts that are underwater. Often, up to 90% of an iceberg’s actual area remains hidden underwater. Similarly, culture and behaviors have both visible and invisible components.
What is the “culture as an iceberg” metaphor referring to? The idea that being in an unknown culture seems cold or uncomfortable. The need to break the ice when in a new cultural setting. The idea that when observing a culture, certain things are obvious above the surface, but are only the tip of the iceberg.
The cultural iceberg is made up of three basic parts. The top ten percent of the iceberg is the part of culture experienced by the senses. The lower portions are the unspoken rules of a culture and the core values and beliefs. Are you a student or a teacher?