British Culture Overview: The Role of the Prime Minister and Monarchy môn Thống kê trong kinh tế và kinh doanh | Trường Đại học Kinh tế Quốc dân

1. Based on what you have studied, write an overview of the Prime Minister of Britain.
The Prime Minister in Britain is the main leader of the government and the head of the party in charge.
They choose the ministers, set the policies, and manage the country’s domestic and foreign affairs.
Although not directly elected by the public, the Prime Minister is generally the leader of the party with
the most MPs in the House of Commons. The role involves both executive tasks and leading the government's agenda.
2. Many MPs in modern times are experts in various fields of government. Because of the
complexity of the modern government, this is something which seems to be necessary. But it could
be said to have disadvantages, too. What do you think these disadvantages are?
Having MPs who are experts in certain fields can be really useful for handling complex issues, but there
are some downsides too. If they have very specialized backgrounds, they might struggle to see the bigger
picture or think about unintended consequences. They might also be swayed too much by certain interest
groups or industries. Plus, if there isn't a mix of different backgrounds and life experiences among MPs,
policies might miss out on addressing the needs of some parts of society.
3. To Britains, what are “national loyalities”? How does this concept differ from that of your country?
In Britain, national loyalties center around a deep-seated allegiance, pride, and sense of belonging to the
United Kingdom as a whole. This contrasts starkly with Vietnam, where loyalty is primarily focused on
the singular Vietnamese nation. What sets the UK apart is its status as a union of four distinct nations -
England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland - each with its own cultural identity and regional
loyalties. Despite these differences, they are all unified under the overarching British identity and key
institutions like the monarchy and Parliament. Unlike Vietnam's unitary state with a more uniform
national identity, Britain's national loyalties are intricately intertwined with its rich and complex history,
including its colonial legacy and the enduring presence of the monarchy as a unifying symbol. This
creates a more layered and multifaceted experience of national identity in Britain compared to Vietnam's
more straightforward allegiance to a single nation.
4. What are some distinctive features of the land in Britain?
Britain’s landscape is quite varied, featuring everything from rugged coastlines and rolling hills to
charming countryside and bustling cities. The island nation has a rich mix of scenery, including the
mountainous regions of Scotland and Wales, the lush meadows, and the iconic chalk cliffs in southern
England. You’ve got famous rivers like the Thames winding through the land, and vibrant urban centres
like London adding to the unique character of Britain’s topography. Whether you're exploring the serene
Lake District or the lively streets of Manchester, there’s a diverse range of landscapes to enjoy across the UK.
5. Why do you think the monarch still exists until now even though the King?Queen does not have political power?
The enduring presence of the British monarchy, despite its lack of direct political authority, is deeply
ingrained in tradition, national identity, and its symbolic representation of the nation's rich history and
enduring values. Serving as a unifying figurehead, the monarchy encapsulates the essence of the country's
cultural heritage, fostering a collective sense of identity, continuity, and stability. Beyond its ceremonial
role, the royal family plays a pivotal part in diplomatic relations, acting as esteemed ambassadors on the
global stage, advocating for British interests and strengthening international ties. Thus, while devoid of
formal political power, the monarchy remains a cornerstone of British society, resonating both
domestically and across the world stage.
6. Why do people often say “An Englishman’s home is his castle”? Does the quote truly reflect
the reality of housing in Britain? Why?
In British culture, the saying "An Englishman's home is his castle" paints a picture of privacy and the idea
that your home is your own little fortress. But let's be real – housing in Britain today is a bit more varied
than that. Sure, we still believe in owning our own patch of land, but with cities getting busier, more
people cramming in, and different incomes, the housing scene's changed. Plenty of us live in flats,
terraced houses, or rented places, where the whole castle vibe might not hit as hard as it does with a big
detached house. Still, the saying taps into something deeper – it's all about respecting personal space and
the dream of owning your own slice of Britain for some of us.
7. In what ways are British pubs different from typical cafes and bars in your country?
British pubs are a world apart from the typical cafes and bars you might find in my country. They've got
this unique vibe – all cozy and traditional with their wooden interiors, soft lighting, and a massive
selection of ales and beers on offer. But pubs aren't just about the drinks; they're woven into the very
fabric of British culture, serving as community hubs where folks have been gathering for donkey's years.
Plus, they dish out all those classic pub grub favourites like fish and chips, shepherd's pie, and Sunday
roasts, giving you a taste of proper British comfort food. On the flip side, the cafes and bars back home
might have a more modern, trendy feel, focusing on your usual coffees, teas, and cocktails. So, when it
comes to soaking up that authentic British pub atmosphere, there's really nothing quite like it.
8. Could you explain the phenomenon known as “inverted snobbery” that is related to class
division in British society? Is there such a similar experience in your country?
"Inverted snobbery" is all about when folks from working-class or lower social backgrounds turn their
noses up at those they see as being posh or from a higher social class. It's like a reverse kind of snobbery,
where instead of looking up to the upper class, they're having a laugh at their expense. This can come out
as making fun of posh accents, manners, or lifestyles. It's a big thing in Britain, where class divides run
pretty deep. While class differences exist in my neck of the woods too, the whole idea of inverted
snobbery might not be as big a deal or have the same historical roots.
9. What are the similarities and differences in terms of education between Vietnam and Britain (except Scotland)?
There are both similarities and differences in the education systems of Vietnam and Britain (except
Scotland). One similarity is the emphasis on academic achievement and standardized testing. Both
countries have a structured educational system with primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. However, a
key difference is the prevalence of private and selective schools in Britain, such as grammar schools and
public (private) schools, which cater to specific socioeconomic groups. Vietnam's education system is
primarily public, with a more uniform curriculum across schools. Additionally, Britain has a well-
established tradition of prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge, which attract students
globally, while Vietnam's higher education system is still developing its international reputation.