Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Cross-Cultural Analysis of Rube Goldberg Machines in Social Media Communication: A Case Study of the US and China

Qiheng GuoZhuhai Oriental Yinghua International Academy*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

The rube goldberg device refers to a device that achieves a simple yet ingenious function through a series of complex, absurd mechanisms. It has become a cultural symbol in our time. However, due to the uncertainty of cultural traditions in the internet age, different cultural regions have varying understandings of the rube goldberg device. This paper investigates video content about the device on Chinese and American social media platforms and analyzes user comments to explore cultural differences in its cross-cultural communication. The results of this study indicate that this cultural symbol presents different interpretations in the two contexts: on American social media platforms, rational appreciation and discussion are the main focus; on Chinese social media platforms, users tend to project emotions and generate meaning. The conclusions of this study provide a new perspective on cross-cultural communication and understanding in the context of globalization.

Keywords: Rube Goldberg; Communication; Social media; Culture
Published: October 28, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.NS28790
Volume: CHR Vol.91
pp. 19-26
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