Reflection #2
Alek Nyberg
Comm 211 Sec 004
The term identity to me is just as confusing as using the term culture. Both words are essentially a giant umbrella term for a very heavy and complicated subject, and that often causes people to underscore their importance in every-day life. To me, culture plays a large part in identity, for cultural norms and standards are a very large part in the formation of a certain individual in society. The issue is that many don’t realize that culture itself is integral to forming an identity, and this gets in the way of proper intercultural communication. When someone grows up in a separate culture, their ideas of relationships, entertainment, traditions, and so on can be completely different from another person raised in a different culture. Without being aware of the effect of culture, they could see each other as “weird” or “uncultured”, which is a huge detriment for both people. In doing so, they are turning away a great learning experience, a chance to grow, and most importantly they are treating each other as less than human.
One part that stuck out to me in this chapter were the steps for forming a minority/majority identity. It stuck out to me, for I didn’t really agree with what was said. The steps they gave out were definitely ideal, and if they were all followed, then everyone in the world would be excellent at multicultural communication, but this simply is not the case. I agree with the first few steps, in which one doesn’t question their culture and their own identity. It’s only when they’re exposed to others that they learn that their culture is different, and the real growth takes place. I agree that there is always going to be a period of doubt whenever one is forming their own identity, and the step after that is where I have the problem with the book. According to the book, after questioning their identity, one will find the answers they’re looking for and incorporate said quality into their identity, whether it be a religion, lifestyle, relationship, etc. It is not always the case that when someone questions a certain aspect of their identity, that aspect grows stronger. Sometimes it’s dropped, and it is often the case that this is to the benefit of the person. For example, being heavy into the partying/drinking life could be a part of your identity, and it would most likely be to your benefit to drop that aspect of your identity. Also, it can be dangerous for one to hold on to their beliefs strongly, even after questioning it. Such is the case with racism today, where it is questioned constantly, and yet those who have incorporated it into their identity may want to keep that part of their identity no matter how much they question it. This is obviously a detriment to intercultural communication
I agree with your comments on how the steps that were given were ideal, and I also think that you make a very good point on how the first few steps were more accurate than the last ones. Good job on your reflection!
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with what you said in your first paragraph. I think that ignorance plays a huge role in how others stereotype people from other cultures. Being open to learn from rather than negatively judge those from different cultures than your own definitely sets the stage for the type of relationship you will have with that person and how you view the culture that they come from. I agree that being aware of the effect that culture has on individuals is a huge determinant for both people's viewpoints. The problem with that, however, is that a lot of people remain unaware.
ReplyDeleteIt is a truly critical refection. Excellent! You did a very good job explaining how complex the terms identity and culture are and also establishing the relationship between them.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree that learning from each other is a "chance to grow." I am not surprised to see you don't buy the simplistic steps listed out in the chapter for forming minority/majority identity. I think your argument makes sense. It is great you supported your claims with examples.