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The True Challenge: Understanding Each Other
In this paper, I will argue that communication is key for diversity and acceptance when it
pertains to our morality. First, I will explain how our experiences shape our beliefs and how we
view others’ beliefs. Next, I object that due to cultural differences, we may not feel comfortable
or confident enough to be entangled in an argument. I respond to these objections by
emphasizing the importance of considering differing perspectives as this allows us to grow as a
person and expand our understanding of the world.
Doing what is right seems like the most obvious option. Unfortunately, that is not always
the case. People all around the world have different ideas of morals. We all have varying beliefs
based on things like where we grew up and how we were raised. Our experiences in life can
shape who we are and how we think. This diversity in beliefs can make it challenging to deal
with. It can be hard to be respectful and kind to others when you can never seem to agree on
basic things you view as such an essential part of who you are.
The trick is trying to balance being respectful and having an open and honest
conversation about what we truly believe. Communication is like the glue that holds our diverse
moral values together. This allows us to understand where a person may be coming from. In the
book, Feminism and Respect for Cultures, we can see how other cultures like the city, of
Rajasthan, India, do not allow widows to work outside of their homes. Many people may
disagree with this, saying, “To me, it seems clear that these restrictions are wrong, and that
feminists must oppose them.” (Saul 262). While women in America may be against this practice,
people in Bai view this as an essential part of their society. We all have different beliefs, values,
and backgrounds. Talking and having an open conversation would help us appreciate the beauty
of diversity. When we share our thoughts and listen to others, we can challenge stereotypes and
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break them down. This can grant us the ability to open our eyes to a whole new world. Through
communication, we can learn about other people’s morals. It can help us become more
empathetic and accepting.
It can be intimidating to criticize one’s culture. We feel like we are unable to do so as it
can be seen as rude or judgmental. When it comes to questioning someone’s culture, it’s all about
being respectful and genuinely interested. Instead of assuming things, asking politely, and
listening actively will provide us with a much better understanding of those around us. Being
open-minded is the key. There is always something to learn but to do so, we have to be willing
and ready to listen to those around us. We are afraid of asking questions for fear of offending
someone. Considerate individuals often hesitate to critique the cultures of others due to their
concerns about potentially disrupting the social traditions of different communities (Rachels 12).
However, being mindful of cultural differences will help us be more respectful. To learn, we
must be prepared to see the world from a new perspective. We can gain insights into different
cultures as well as build meaningful connections based on understanding and mutual respect.
In conclusion, doing what we believe to be right can be very difficult. It is even harder to
just stay out of someone else’s culture if we believe what they are doing is morally wrong.
Dialogue, when done right, can be a productive way to have a meaningful conversation that will
eventually lead to us accepting and understanding our differences. While it can be scary to start
this conversation for fear of offending someone, a conversation is needed.