Backsheesh
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Baksheesh
The 20th century is commonly referred as the age of globalization, which is accurately defined as the spread of capitalist influence on the world. Individuals and enterprises are conducting business transactions across many different countries and markets, thus creating a whole new field commonly known as international business. While many American companies benefit from the spread of business overseas, they must overcome the many cultural differences that confront them on a daily basis. One of the more prevalent and difficult differences that American enterprises face in foreign markets is "baksheesh."
Baksheesh, by American definition, is a gratuity, tip, or bribe paid to expedite service, especially in some Near Eastern countries. There are three basic types of baksheesh which include: "alms giving," "for the granting of favors," and "for services rendered."
Alms giving are one of the five tenants of Islam. Giving alms to the poor allegedly makes the giver more holy by engaging in such an activity. In American culture, alms giving are not as prevalent as in Iran for example. American government has systems and programs in place to help those that are in need...