rainerann
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- Joined
- Mar 18, 2017
- Messages
- 4,550
would you think that it is fair to say that the root complaint is relevant to the shortcomings shared by humanity then? it would seem like what you are saying is that people basically act selfishly and this selfishness leads to forcing change to a culture that many people might reject. For example, selfishness on the part of those who see economic advantages to cheap labor and the selfishness of those who have aggressive expectations they may not have earned being new to the country.Hi @rainerann
I would also say, that culture isnt something static. How could it be? But, on the other hand, there are some aspect, which change rather slowly. And, like @Artful Revealer suggested, there are definitely some achievements, that are worth, fighting for, if something or someone would try to "manage" that. Because, like you stated about freedom of speech, some of theses cultural aspects, define the very essence of our self-conception.
And it is totally normal, that some aspects of culture may be hurtful to others. Like eating meat (or being christian). But is this a good enough reason for governments, to try and change that? I see this very different from a culture that changes over time, because its "participants" change.
You know.. although I consider myself a conservative (at least in regard to values, because of my christian believes), I would never try to forbid someone else's way of life. Thats why I'm not engaged in politics.
And I'm perfectly fine with you citing the bibleAnd in regard to our topic, I would raise you
Matthew 19,19: …Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Nowadays, people like to point out, that this is impossible, or only manageable, if you love yourself first. But, imagine yourself being a foreigner in another country. What would you expect from the native society to accommodate you? I like to think, that this is, what you should do for any foreigner in your own country.
And yes, wars have been a major factor for changes in culture. But, like we witness in Europe right now, its not always our own war, or even an actual war. Sometimes, the mere possibility of war, may change the way of thinking in a society. Which brings me to another famous example. Edward Bernay (famous writer of "Propaganda" - another word for public relations (or marketing) - and nephew of Sigmund Freud) has been credited for bringing the US into the second world war, and after that, convinced a whole female generation, that smoking would act like a sort of penis [src].
And regarding Europe's current situation,.. I only speak of this situation as some kind of fate, because it is already too late. This current migration crises could haven been handled very differently. They could have raised their voice, before these conflicts escalated, they could have been there during the war (the refugee camps cried for help for a long time). But, I cannot say this often enough, our government is really happy about this immigration. Some critics say, this is because of cheap labour. Others say, its neccesarry for reproduction. And the biggest excuse was the "Fachkräftemangel" (absence of skilled workers). This has nothing to do with love, or respect for other cultures. These migrants were lured to Europe. And now we have to change our ways, because of what? Was it love? I guess not.
And if I think of Plato, I think of the "philosopher king" who thought, raising children shouldn't be allowed for anyone, but some selected few. In this regard, he (plato) really was a fascist. And technically (or mathematically) spoken, he may be right. But there are a many number, that will indicate some really painful decisions.
I'm also kind of drifting off. So.. I will end my lengthy note now. Have a great.. noon?! Ah, just have a great day!
Kind regards,
Threepwood
P.S. And please know, that I am really glad about reading your initial remark. Although I have to admit, that most of what I said, derived from someone else. But really.. thanks, I try to live up to that. And, in response I would like to add, that its easy, when there are such polite and interesting posts to reply to.
I think finding ways to address deeper challenges that humanity faces like this, would be of greater benefit than trying to hang on to former aspects of culture for dear life. What do you think?
