Brazilian Culture

It's really fascinating as to the cultural differences between America and Brazil that I was able to spot at the camp out.  Compared to the more independent Americans, Brazilians tend to be very good at group activities as long as it go along with the flow.  I found that in the face of rules and obedience Brazilians tend not to get along too well.  For example, even after some of the dances at the camp out (like at 3 or 4) in the morning, a lot of the young adults would refuse to go to sleep and instead stayed up playing some really loud music and messing around! The adult leaders there had very little morale and respect and had a hard time getting things under control (I can only imagine what the youth camps must have been like).   In some ways this may reflect the general Brazilian distrust for individuals for authoritative figures such as politicians.  For instance, very few Brazilians (compared to Americans) actually put on a seat belt when driving.  In many cases Brazilians live in a world where many laws go unenforced, and consequently it shows in their daily interactions.   However, when an activity is well chosen and fits in well with the flow of the group, you'll  never see a more excited and actively participating group!