Social Anthropology
It is given to us, as social creatures, to make the most of our lives. As social, gregarious beings, we have an inborn tendency to take comfort in the presence of other people. Generally those people with whom we have something in common. We begin, as infants, learning our place within the family structure, and as we mature, to take our place within the wider structure of the close community, before we begin to identify with the larger society we're part of.
Customs and traditions associated with that society are imbibed by us through our upbringing, and a large portion of that may or may not be associated with exposure to religion which may or may not play a large part in our conscious and subliminal affiliation as we absorb what we are exposed to by direct teaching and through observation. We become what we are destined to be in part through the social infrastructure that informs us.
Central to being part of any society is to learn concern for others; the social contract of decency. To be considerate of others, to exhibit kindness toward others, to become empathetic and compassionate. Simple courtesies practised throughout everyday life in interacting with people who are a part of our direct families, our neighbours, friends and acquaintances. Extending in a ripple effect to strangers, also part of the communities we inhabit.
If we've learned our lesson well, it doesn't become a difficulty to trust others. We are creatures of society, whether it's the one we're familiar with, or one reflecting a tradition and a culture not our own. Unfamiliarity with a culture, a language, a religion, a traditional way of life should inspire us to work a little harder at courtesy through making an effort to understand in small part the values the instruct others.
Offering respect to those whose customs are different than ours, quietly and courteously goes a long way to instilling a conviction in others that we mean no offence in our ignorance. The effort to extend a universal courtesy of recognition of others as worthwhile members of society, ensures reciprocity. People, no matter the culture and tradition, appreciate acknowledgement and return the compliment.
The social niceties of courtesy to others are often described as social etiquette, but this is a more precious description of a universal need to bring tolerance and respect to the table of human communion.
If our demeanor gives offence, it diminishes our presence and therefore our humanity.
Customs and traditions associated with that society are imbibed by us through our upbringing, and a large portion of that may or may not be associated with exposure to religion which may or may not play a large part in our conscious and subliminal affiliation as we absorb what we are exposed to by direct teaching and through observation. We become what we are destined to be in part through the social infrastructure that informs us.
Central to being part of any society is to learn concern for others; the social contract of decency. To be considerate of others, to exhibit kindness toward others, to become empathetic and compassionate. Simple courtesies practised throughout everyday life in interacting with people who are a part of our direct families, our neighbours, friends and acquaintances. Extending in a ripple effect to strangers, also part of the communities we inhabit.
If we've learned our lesson well, it doesn't become a difficulty to trust others. We are creatures of society, whether it's the one we're familiar with, or one reflecting a tradition and a culture not our own. Unfamiliarity with a culture, a language, a religion, a traditional way of life should inspire us to work a little harder at courtesy through making an effort to understand in small part the values the instruct others.
Offering respect to those whose customs are different than ours, quietly and courteously goes a long way to instilling a conviction in others that we mean no offence in our ignorance. The effort to extend a universal courtesy of recognition of others as worthwhile members of society, ensures reciprocity. People, no matter the culture and tradition, appreciate acknowledgement and return the compliment.
The social niceties of courtesy to others are often described as social etiquette, but this is a more precious description of a universal need to bring tolerance and respect to the table of human communion.
If our demeanor gives offence, it diminishes our presence and therefore our humanity.
Labels: Environment, Social-Cultural Deviations
posted by Pieface @ 5:55 PM
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