Eth 120 - Introduction to Diversity

Introduction to Diversity

Ashley Hurst

ETH/120

March 23, 2015

Kurt Konda

Introduction to Diversity

Diversity is everywhere; it is in schools and workplaces all around the world.  Diversity is what makes this world so dynamic and interesting. By definition, and according to “Dictionary.com” (2015) “diversity means the inclusion of individuals representing more than one national origin, color, religion, socioeconomic stratum, sexual orientation, etc.” (Diversity).  If the world lacked diversity, everything would be very boring and monotonous.  Living in a world full of people from every kind of background and different cultures gives all of us something to learn.  Unfortunately in the same regard, it also gives us something to disagree with or hate. Diversity brings differences to light, and those differences bring on the feeling that either everyone is against you, making you seem insignificant, or it brings on feelings of superiority. Neither of which is good thing.  

Valuing Diversity

The importance of valuing diversity tends to be a difficult thing for some people to understand and embrace. The people who are under the assumption that they are the best at everything, and that there is no better way to live life, are the ones who seem to have a harder time accepting diversity.  On the other hand, there are people in this world who enjoy learning about other cultures and ethnicities.  Those are the people who value diversity and crave equality for the human race.  Valuing diversity begins at home.  Teaching the youth of America to not discriminate and to treat everyone fairly.  These lessons are necessary to eliminate old ways of thinking.  The field of Early Intervention is a great example of a workplace that values diversity.  It just so happens that this field also works with children.  These special people who devote their life and time go into homes or daycares, or wherever the child’s natural environment is and helps them learn and grow.  Early Interventionist do this with grace, compassion and the ultimate respect for every race, ethnicity, gender, etc. If a child is lucky enough to have to these services, the child is exposed to a person who truly values diversity.  

What is Ethnocentrism?

Along with diversity also comes ethnocentrism. According to “Dictionary.com” (2015), “Ethnocentrism, by definition means, the belief in the inherent superiority of one’s own culture or ethnic group” (Ethnocentrism).  Ethnocentrism is when a group or culture uses their cultural norms to make generalizations about other people or other cultures.  Making assumptions based on what a culture believes to be correct can lead to cultural misinterpretations.  Ethnocentrism is a big word that means a judgment that is unfair and made prematurely.  Being ethnocentric runs the risk of distorted communication between all people, leading ultimately to destruction.  Ethnocentrism is a big part of history, dating back to World War II.  Hitler is one of the famous faces in history known for being ethnocentric. Hitler used ethnocentrism to fuel wars and violence.  Ignorance is also known to play a significant role in ethnocentrism.  Educating cultures on the effects of ethnocentrism will hopefully enable people to see that we are all one race, the human race.