In this era of increasing globalization, cross-cultural dialogue is becoming increasingly important. Interculturalism is not only about cultural diversity, but also a movement to actively promote dialogue and interaction between different cultures. This view is very different from previous multiculturalism, which often only stays at the superficial coexistence of cultures. In contrast, interculturalism encourages in-depth exchanges and challenges the tendency of cultural self-isolation.
Interculturalism is a political movement that promotes communication and understanding among different groups of people, emphasizing common human needs and critical dialogue.
The emergence of interculturalism is partly a criticism of traditional multicultural policies, which often fail to truly promote the integration of different cultures and may instead lead to a deepening of social divisions and a sense of isolation. Interculturalism advocates the idea of acknowledging cultural differences while seeking similarities.
In her work Cultivating Humanity, renowned philosopher Martha Nussbaum defines the multidimensionality of interculturalism and emphasizes the importance of recognizing the common needs of humanity. Anthropologist Joann Rappaport goes further and breaks it down into three main components: method as connection, a political philosophy aimed at creating an ideal indigenous citizenship, and a challenge to traditional anthropology.
Interculturalism is not only a cultural policy, it is also a philosophy that promotes the coexistence of different ethnic groups.
In Latin America and Europe, the concept of interculturalism has gradually been incorporated into the constitutions of many countries, demonstrating its influence in global policy. In 2005, UNESCO adopted the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, further emphasizing the significance of interculturalism.
Transcultural health is the concept of applying interculturalism to the health field, with the goal of promoting integration between indigenous health systems and biomedical systems. This model emphasizes that the definition of health should not be limited to biomedicine, but also include the value of traditional medicine.
The ultimate goal of cross-cultural health is to align health outcomes and view various medical knowledge systems with equality.
As part of the case, a number of cross-cultural health projects have been implemented in countries such as Chile, Ecuador, Bolivia and Colombia. The success of these projects depends on cooperation and mutual respect among all participating cultures.
Although interculturalism has gained widespread support in some areas, it is also quite controversial. Some scholars argue that interculturalism may be too binary and unable to fully embrace more diverse cultural practices. Others believe that interculturalism provides an effective framework to promote understanding and respect among different ethnic groups.
Interculturalism is a dynamic process of cultural diversity that encourages inclusion rather than exclusion.
In today's interconnected global society, cross-cultural dialogue is not only important, it is essential. The challenge for the future is how to find common ground in diversity so that every culture can exist in this world with dignity and face larger social issues together.
Finally, we can think about this: In the tide of globalization, how can you contribute to promoting cross-cultural dialogue?