For
this assignment I spoke with three individuals.
My significant other; my sister who is older than I am and a
kindergarten teacher; and my niece who is thirteen years and they all shared
their perspectives on culture and diversity.
My significant other
Culture:
is your values, beliefs, tradition,
ethnicity, language, religion and by extension your upbringing.
Diversity:
is the differences among groups of people.
These groups can be gender, race, social class etc.
My sister
Culture:
is the value system of any group, be it family or society, based on social,
religious and ethnic factors. Nonetheless, culture is influenced by time.
Diversity:
is the similarities and differences among people. It is what makes us stand out and be unique. Being diverse means not losing
your own identity to conform to that of others. It involves
respecting and accepting the uniqueness in everyone.
My niece
Culture:
is your way of life. Your values, beliefs, language, customs,
traditions, and mannerisms. It defines who you are.
Diversity:
is the differences among people.
Differences in the way you look, walk, speak, your abilities and talents.
Reflecting
on the definitions that were given, it was evident that they are all related to
what was learnt this week on culture and diversity. They all encompassed some aspects of surface
and deep culture. Nonetheless, one
aspect of culture which I never thought of was highlighted by my sister, and
that is the notion that culture is influenced by time. Taken in that light, it means that culture is
not static/fixed by rather dynamic and complex which is also in keeping with
some of the insights gained this week.
They all suggested that culture and diversity are intertwined and as
such are vital to every society. These
two concepts define who we are as individuals.
Considering the ideas of these individuals has reinforced my
understanding of culture and diversity.
I loved the comment your sister made about not losing your identity. So many times people try to conform to others so they can feel validated and accepted. But we have the right to have our own opinions, feelings and perspectives. It makes unique individuals.
ReplyDeleteHi Zephirina,
ReplyDeleteHow are you? Its great that you where able to speak to members in your family and get an intake on their perspectives on culture and diversity. Your niece is absolutely right culture is your way of life. Your values, beliefs, language, customs, traditions, and mannerisms. It defines who you are. My culture separates me from others (and I'm sure that speaks for you too), but I think accepting others and showing respect and appreciation is the key.
-Talisha