by John Hewitt

Created on: July 23, 2009

Diversity of species is a truly wonderful thing, especially when we talk of the human race. Different cultures and diverse languages and lifestyles all make for a fascinating planet and the diversity itself brings about the sharing of cultures and thus we gain a better understanding of ourselves as well as each other. This can only bring humanity closer together.

Diversity then, should actually increase togetherness rather than promoting separation for it promotes inquiry and a sharing of knowledge that might not otherwise be made available.

The problems arise though when the diversity brings segregation. When races stick to there own groups and do not integrate into the community in which they now live. This can only ever lead to tension and separation. As an Englishman, whatever that may mean, it is sad to see my fellow compatriots abroad in their own familiar groups and circles. The key here is the familiarity and staying within the comfort zone. To stretch and learn of the culture in which we are taking part whether as tourists or as new settlers is vital to the progress of us as humans and to bring a sense of "one world" into each others lives.

The same is true where I currently live in the United Kingdom and while there are an overwhelming majority of cultures that contribute and enhance the experience of where we live there are areas of self imposed segregation where one feels almost like an intruder. This segregation is what breeds tension and mistrust and is so sad to witness.

Whether here or the classic "Englishman abroad" any form of separatist thinking is dangerous. We need to share and explore and experience a free flowing exchange of ideas and knowledge and culture. Why else would we all be here and why else would the diversity exist if it was not to promote this sharing?

Diversity is a great tool for it allows the self to be "self " and yet part of something greater than the sum of its parts. This exponential human experience is what elevates our spirit and our humanity and without this we are all just separate little groups getting on with our blinkered separate lives.

This "separation" is the entirety of the human conditional problem in a word. In contrast then, joining and union is ultimately what will save us all from our selves if we could, just for a moment, lay down our prejudices and our judgements no matter what the form they may take.

Diversity is thus all about bringing together our unique selves into a whole that is exhilarating and multi-faceted. This union is essential to our own progress within this cosmos for you never know who you will meet next on our travels and it would be such a shame to miss out on new experiences through blinkered living.

Diversity is ultimately what One World is all about.

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