Process — Jason Ramasami

Difference is the new normal: how to deal with it.

This image is based on something I have been thinking and teaching about for a number of years: how do we embrace a diverse world with integrity and respect? I gathered a few nuggets of wisdom teaching Religious Education over the years that I think might help encourage a peaceful society in the coming years. My usual process notes are at the end for those who are interested.

A little historical recap

Gone are the days where a belief was geo-located. This is something I know well because I grew up in an immigrant family with no less than four different worldviews. Maybe this is easier to cope with when it’s all you have known - I suspect that many people feel anxiety as they face a changing future of differences.

So how have we responded to this new situation?

It isn’t difficult to see two extremes at play on social media and in recent global politics: the Blockers and the Blenders. They are stereotypes, but I think it helps to map out the territory before we go further.

The Blockers

This response is looking for something nostalgic perhaps(?) - a simpler set of values where everyone knows what is what. There’s something understandable about the desire for stable foundations - nobody really wants to live in a time of uncertainty and unstable change. However - as I have said in the image - there are too many examples in recent history where this approach has led to serious harm as those with the power seek to reinforce their barriers. Is the crushing of the weak really an approach worth justifying? Might isn’t always right.

The Blenders

Liberal minded, this extreme hates the idea of having harsh boundaries and goes in the other direction - embracing difference with generosity and warmth. I can fully understand why this seems like the best response - it feels arrogant to assume that you know better than others. Surely there is something to be learnt from everyone we meet?

While I agree with these points, it is also worth saying that uncritical acceptance is unwise. Professionals who work for the safety in society know full-well that we don’t live in benevolent times. There are toxic influences that ought to be limited. Warmth: great. Uncritical acceptance: foolish.

AKT: Three excellent qualities to keep in tension

These three qualities are a wise mix to develop if we want to encourage a truly tolerant and peaceful society.

Accuracy: I will study you

Kindness: I will care for you

Transparency: I will be honest with you

Dealing with differences: keeping three (excellent) qualities in tension

Accuracy, Kindness and Transparency - difficult to hold these in tension but well worth spending a lifetime developing them for the sake of peace. Get in touch if you have any comments or feedback.