Interactions in a Diverse Society and Common Space
Societies become increasingly diverse ⇒ relationships among people can become more complex. → people have different beliefs, values, practices and views.
Interactions among diverse individuals and groups of people → lead to exchange and appreciation of cultures, knowledge, skills. → interactions may also create tensions ⇒ people negotiate differences.
Preserve harmony ⇒ must build society in which people can engage with each other ⇒ in spirit of trust, respect and mutual accommodation
common space refers to a physical location and/or social space where different groups of people interact, cooperate or collaborate on projects or activities. SocialStudiesDefinitions
Allow people to:
- forge ties and establish mutual understanding between people of different races, ethnicities, religions and socio-economic statuses.
- Create shared experiences and memories
Example of Common space SocialStudiesExamples: void deck in public housing estates. → open and sheltered areas on ground floor of most blocks of flats build by HDB. → provide opportunities for residents to meet, interact and bond.
Example of Common space: schools and their programs. (they mix, study and play together) OBS ⇒ outward bound Singapore ⇒ engage in activities to improve community and environment. → develop ruggedness, resilience and cohesion among students from diff. backgrounds. → opportunity for students to create shared experiences and memories.
Example of Common space: social and cultural events, programs where people can engage and develop relationships with one another
Experiences and Effects of Living in a Diverse Society
Peoples attitudes towards interaction is important as well. attitude of openness or being open minded helps promote harmonious interactions in a diverse society. → open mindedness: more willing to actively listen, respectfully engage and appreciate differences between 1 another.
Cultural Exchange and Appreciation Exchange of Knowledge and Skills Stereotypes, Prejudice and Discrimination Competition for Resources
Chapter Summary
| Positive Experiences | Negative Experiences | |
|---|---|---|
| can lead to creation of new ideas, methods and products → promoting harmony and progress important to manage these experiences so that interactions in a diverse society can be harmonious, meaningful and beneficial | Can lead to stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination competition over resources ⇒ can also create tensions and anxiety among people |