Diversity

What is diversity? Why is diversity valued?

Diversity is defined as “the condition of having or being composed of differing elements”, by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. The United States, for example, is inhabited by a variety of people from different cultures, religions, races, etc. and is considered a diverse nation. Although, diversity presents its problems, it does have positives. Schaefer (2012) gives us insight into pluralism which explains to us that groups within a society build a certain level of respect for one another’s differences (pg 25). When that happens, different groups are able to practice religious and cultural beliefs without the fear of being judged or discriminated against. My opinion is diversity brings about a thought process that we can all live together and respect each other peacefully, despite our difference. This is an important aspect of why diversity is valued.

What is ethnocentrism? In what ways can ethnocentrism be detrimental to a society?

Ethnocentrism is the belief that the ways of one group are superior to all others. It means that a group judges another group by the principles of their own group and that all other groups are second-rate. This way of thinking can be very damaging to a society. Schaefer (2012) stated, “Ill feeling between groups may result from ethnocentrism” (p. 35). Gang members came to mind when I initially read on this topic. One gang tends to think their members and practices are superior to all other local gangs. This way of thinking causes tensions to rise between the two gangs, violence usually occurs, and at times innocent people get hurt.

Define emigration and immigration.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines emigration (emigrate) as “to leave one’s place of residence or country to live elsewhere.” It defines immigration (immigrate) as “to come into a country of which one is not a native for permanent residence.” There could be many reasons why someone would leave their place of...