Skip to content

Accepting Quote by John Cleese

“Muslims, who have a completely different value system, come to the West, then they should accept that there are certain basic values in the West intrinsic to our culture. Just as I wouldn't suggest that any Westerner walk down the streets of Saudi Arabia in a bikini.” quote by John Cleese
Download Open image
“Muslims, who have a completely different value system, come to the West, then they should accept that there are certain basic values in the West intrinsic to our culture. Just as I wouldn't suggest that any Westerner walk down the streets of Saudi Arabia in a bikini.”

John Cleese

About This Quote

Source Interview: BBC Radio 4, 1995

Cultural differences demand mutual respect; imposing one’s norms on another is inappropriate.

In simple terms: Respect cultural differences.

Key Takeaway

Practice cultural humility.

Themes

culture respect values

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical practical

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • international work
  • multicultural teams

Key Concepts

anthropology ethics social norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you navigate cultural expectations?
  • What values are universal?
A Different Perspective

Overgeneralizing cultures can cause offense.

3.4 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by John Cleese

Explore all 209 John Cleese quotes

More Accepting quotes

Browse all 6,788 Accepting quotes