Weekly Chat
Globalization and Tolerance is the topic of the Weekly Chat for Module 02 during the weeks 4, 5 and 6.
Background: When people use the term "globalization," they could be using it to describe economic, political, environmental, or scientific issues, as well as describing the interchange of culture around the world. To globalize is defined by Webster's Dictionary as "to extend to other or all parts of the globe; make worldwide."
Language loss is currently happening in epidemic proportions around the world. Some of the loss can be attributed to the globalization of the English language. People around the world are learning and using English as it is emerging as the dominant language for many aspects of communication. E-mail, faxes, the Internet, air travel, cell phones, and camcorders are here to stay, keeping us connected with friends and family all around the world. Perhaps because it seems to be so simple and effortless, we rarely find the time to think about the magic that occurs as a result of increased communication.
Cultures, ways of life, and languages are being shared; thus, we are growing to understand and appreciate the cultural diversity of our world. The other side of the story is that because of our increased communication abilities, the world is becoming smaller. Cultures and languages are blending together or are simply disappearing. The challenge is how to live in a global community while attempting to strengthen and preserve the many cultures found in it.
As cultures rub elbows, another issue arises as well. What degree of welcome, respect, and tolerance do we have for other cultures with which we come into contact? Many of us experience this on a personal level when a new kid enters the classroom from another country or from a cultural group that is quite different from our own. For some people, the first inclination is to want to learn about that person. But sadly, for others, the first inclination is to make fun of that person, engage in ethnic or racial name calling, bully him or her, and even participate in violence against the person's family or cultural group. What ingredients go into tolerance for others' differences? How can we learn to live within our own culture and yet be citizens of a diverse world?
Transcripts
Check here for weekly chat transcripts to read or watch!
Globalization & Tolerance
March 16, 2007
w/Rev. Brad Froslee
Transcript >>
Globalization & Tolerance
March 22, 2007
w/Mille Porsild
Globalization & Tolerance
March 30, 2007
w/ Dr. August Nimtz
Some questions to possibly open the discussion with!
How do we show tolerance towards those that differ from ourselves? Are you tolerant of other people, their habits, and customs?
What is the value of learning another language? What can you learn about another country by learning to speak its language?
Is it important to preserve Native cultures?
