What is one characteristic of culture?

Culture is a broad and complex system of shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices that shape the behavior and worldview of individuals within a group. One key characteristic of culture is its applicability to both nationalities and sub-cultures. This means that while different nations have their distinct cultural identities, within each nation there can be various sub-cultures that reflect different social, ethnic, regional, or other group distinctions.

Understanding culture in this way is crucial in an international business context, as it highlights the diversity that exists even within a single country. For example, in the United States, there are numerous sub-cultures influenced by factors such as ethnicity, geography, or socioeconomic status, each with its unique perspectives and practices. Recognizing that culture permeates various layers of society helps businesses tailor their strategies to resonate with both national and sub-cultural identities, improving communication and effectiveness in multicultural environments.

The other options fail to capture the comprehensive nature of culture, as it is not limited to nationalities or solely about food preferences, nor does it ignore the impact on communication styles. Hence, the correct acknowledgment of culture's characteristics reinforces its multifaceted presence in global interactions.