What is the significance of diversity in human cultures?

Social Psychology (10th Edition)
10th Edition
ISBN:9780134641287
Author:Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher:Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Chapter1: Introducing Social Psychology
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ1
icon
Related questions
Question

What is the significance of diversity in human cultures?

Expert Solution
Step 1

Introduction

Culture is the prism by which we judge everything around us; it is through our culture that we assess what is appropriate or improper, usual or abnormal. When we come into contact with a radically different culture after being immersed in one that is not our own, we may experience culture shock and become disoriented. People instinctively use their own culture to judge other cultures; however, judging others may lead to prejudice against those whose "ways of being" differ from their own; ultimately, we fear what we don't understand.

Significance of Cultural Diversity

Since our country, workplaces, and schools are increasingly diverse in terms of cultural, racial, and ethnic groups, cultural diversity is significant. We can benefit from one another, but we must first have a basic understanding of one another in order to collaborate and cooperate effectively. Learning about other cultures allows one to gain a better understanding of the world we live in, as well as dispel negative perceptions and personal prejudices about various groups.

In addition, cultural diversity allows us to identify and appreciate “ways of being” that are not inherently our own, helping us to create bridges of trust, respect, and understanding across cultures as we communicate with others. Furthermore, since people from various cultures contribute language skills, new knowledge, and different perspectives, our country becomes a more fascinating place to live.

 

trending now

Trending now

This is a popular solution!

steps

Step by step

Solved in 2 steps

Blurred answer
Recommended textbooks for you
Social Psychology (10th Edition)
Social Psychology (10th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134641287
Author:
Elliot Aronson, Timothy D. Wilson, Robin M. Akert, Samuel R. Sommers
Publisher:
Pearson College Div
Introduction to Sociology (Eleventh Edition)
Introduction to Sociology (Eleventh Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780393639407
Author:
Deborah Carr, Anthony Giddens, Mitchell Duneier, Richard P. Appelbaum
Publisher:
W. W. Norton & Company
The Basics of Social Research (MindTap Course Lis…
The Basics of Social Research (MindTap Course Lis…
Sociology
ISBN:
9781305503076
Author:
Earl R. Babbie
Publisher:
Cengage Learning
Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Scien…
Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Scien…
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134477596
Author:
Saferstein, Richard
Publisher:
PEARSON
Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (13th Edition)
Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach (13th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134205571
Author:
James M. Henslin
Publisher:
PEARSON
Society: The Basics (14th Edition)
Society: The Basics (14th Edition)
Sociology
ISBN:
9780134206325
Author:
John J. Macionis
Publisher:
PEARSON