Us v. Them

Throughout the history of the human race there has always been an “us vs. them” mentality, driving our desire and need to be a part of a particular group. What drives us to belong to one group or another? Will there ever be a time in which our sameness overpowers our few differences? Is globalization the answer to all of our troubles? The things that separate “us” from “them” may or may not be something we can change, but even with the global advances that have been made, the divide clearly remains.

The term globalization is relatively new, but its definition runs deep. Globalization can refer to the integration of cultures, international business practices and economy, or even politics; it is a word of all trades. Never has one word managed to cut across so many different sections of everyday life. That is why it is so significant. But does it really affect who “we” are --- who “they” are?

Of course it does, whether we would like to admit it or not. The advancements in high speed airplane and railway travel, coupled with the increased capabilities in communication (internet, phone, social media), has greatly improved the ways in which people are able to connect with others from around the world. People today are able to experience different parts of the world by picking up the phone, turning on their computer, or even taking a relatively easy plane ride across the ocean to expand their own “inner circle.” Companies do business around the world to save on production costs and increase revenue. Top politicians from the United States attempt to work with politicians from different countries to improve international relations, tackle worldwide issues, and collaborate different ideas. When we make these kinds of connections we are ul...

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...hers’ culture and ideas won’t be easy. Appiah makes the argument that even understanding another’s culture can be difficult, never mind trying to agree with it (658). However, it may be possible if we show an openness and willingness to actually listen and learn about another culture. Understanding the history behind the customs and traditions can help many people make sense of a strange idea. The “us vs. them” mentality will probably never fully disappear but it could be possible to make the lines less deliberate.

Globalization makes it possible for ideas to cross borders every day, but will it ever completely bridge the gap between “us vs. them”? Do we really want to bridge that gap and dismiss everything that makes various cultures unique? Only time will answer those questions but until then the split will remain visible, even if the lines are clouding.