"One of the most intriguing aspects of human interaction is the existence of diversity.
The existence of diversity is what makes my existence worthwhile and fun-filled, giving me a chance to grow myself. Diversity of everyday life, of perspective, of thought, of tradition, of language, of clothes, of EVERYTHING is what makes life interesting and colorful. If you’re lookin’ for the cheesy metaphor, then here it is: Diversity in life is the tye-dye colors on an otherwise white t-shirt. (Okay, laugh. Just a little. Fine. At least Smile? Okay, maybe not.)
The point is Diversity is strength and color of life. However, it’s a little disturbing to me when others can’t see it this way. In fact, Diversity is looked upon as a potential roadblock. I’m especially concerned with the Samuel P. Huntington’s theory of problems that arise due to “The clash of civilizations.”
Huntington’s main points are summarized in the following quote from his book, The Clash of Civilizations: “It is my hypothesis that the fundamental source of conflict in this new world will not be primarily ideological or primarily economic. The great divisions among humankind and the dominating source of conflict will be cultural. Nation states will remain the most powerful actors in world affairs, but the principal conflicts of global politics will occur between nations and groups of different civilizations. The clash of civilizations will dominate global politics. The fault lines between civilizations will be the battle lines of the future.”
I get where Huntington’s coming from. I definitely see the potential problems that may arise when two different people meet, but it doesn’t mean that the problem is that they are from two different backgrounds. The problem is misunderstanding that may be fostered from two different cultures. It’s not the Clash of Culture that’s causing a problem, it’s more the Clash of Ignorance as pointed out by many prominent figures like His Highness Aga Khan IV and elaborated on this blog.
So why does it matter if we call it clash of civilization or clash of ignorance? While arguing those two aren’t the same thing leaves room for much argument, a concrete reason for the distinction is the solution that would follow. If we call our problems a clash of civilizations, then what’s the solution? What do you do about the mere fact that two people are different? Try to force the other one to be more like the other one, or the financially richer of the two? NO, that is not the answer to solving the problem. The eradication of diversity makes our world less colorful, less natural, and bland...something we definitely don't want to loose.
However, there is a plausible solution to a Clash of Ignorance. Ignorance and Misunderstandings can be eradicated through education of other cultures, languages, thought, tradition and perspective. Granted, it may not be easy-but it does allow for growth, working together, and making life even more colorful than it was.
No matter what the difference may be-difference in thought, difference in religion, difference in tradition- our differences shouldn’t be a reason of conflict, we should strive to make it a pillar of strength."
No comments:
Post a Comment