Introduction
Modern Switzerland has been developed from 25 sovereign cantons based on the initial Federal Constitution in 1848. It comprises of four linguistic zones, including; (a) German-speakers situated in the north, center, and east; (b) French-speakers situated in the west; (c) Italian-speakers, situated in the south, and; (d) Romansh-speakers, situated in limited area in southeast (Fleiner, par. 1). On the other hand, the United States is a vast country consisting of population arising from various race groups including white-American, African-American, Asian-American, Mexican-American, and Native American. Unlike Switzerland, these ethnic groups are uniformly distributed across the country.
Identity and linguistic orientation
While most Swiss residents can speak more than one language, most Americans can only speak one language, English. This is because Switzerland adopts three official languages, including Italian, French and German. In the United States, a person may only be required to speak English, because it is the dominant language across the United States.
The adaption of the German lingual dates back to the preliminary Middle Ages, following the Alamans invasion of regions in which Romance language was becoming established (Fleiner par. 6).
In the French-speaking zone, the initial Franco-Provencal dialects are the verge of waning out in preference for standard French tinted by native accents and some lexical elements (Fleiner par. 7). Generally, the Romansh, which is a Romance lingo of the Rhaetian sub-tribe, is the only language unique to Switzerland besides two parent languages (Fleiner par. 9).
In the United States, although the official language is English, the regions that are dominated by Mexican American the use speak Spanish often compared to English. In addition the Americans do not speak Standard English.
Marriage, family units, and relationship
Swiss marriages are no longer predetermined, however endogamy has persisted in regard of social group. At the moment, binational marriages are very common in Switzerland. However, this form of marriage is making a major comeback once again, after it had lost its fame during the 1970s and the 1980s.
During the 1990s, the binational marriages gained frequency. Age is not a major issue to any couple aspiring to tie the knot. In addition, divorce is also very common. Moreover, dowry obligations have also somewhat subsidized (Fleiner par. 12). In the US homosexual marriage is permissible, so that marriage between gays and lesbian are permitted by the law.
At the household level, most families are made up of one or two individuals. In addition, the nuclear family is now the trend, effectively replacing the traditional extended family that was very common in the 1920s. At the same time, all the parents have a common accountability (Fleiner par. 14).
The law limits a testator’s liberty to dispense property, because a fraction of it is entitled to the lawful heirs, who are impossible to disinherit. The ranking of preference within lawful heirs is recognized by the extent of proximity of biological connection. Eventually, the children and the ongoing spouse have precedence. In addition children become heir to proportionate shares (Fleiner par. 15).
Cultural experience
From a cultural point of view, Switzerland has gained global repute, thanks to its arts and films industry. This helps to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country. The country has over the years played host to various business events and cultural festivals. A tourist who visits Switzerland during one of its many festivals around the year usually experiences the vibrant cultural heritage that the country has to offer.
Work Cited
Fleiner Thomas., Switzerland: subsidiary, ethnic and cultural diversity.June 2001. Web.