I’ve prided myself on the thought that I don’t judge people on the merit of their works, but of their person. I do have to admit that actually do discriminate a person based on their works. I’ve often judged those with what I may have seen as menial occupations as people of less intelligence and drive. This is not true, as I have learned in the past, but was brought more to light with the example from our text book, page 77. Just considering how those of widely varied jobs in Denmark view each other as equals. I’ve never considered this perspective and feel a bit enlightened because of it.
Ethically speaking, I do not condone speaking down to people because of their sex, orientation, race, color, creed, or religion. I do however practice treating people as they treat others. While I have befriended some people initially because of their similarities to myself, I have found that sometimes this is not good practice. Although I do falter on this issue, I do try to learn about a person by listening and observing their behavior. This is not quite as quick as picking someone that looks like or acts like you, but it is much more gratifying in the long run. Many times this has resulted in someone I’ve called a friend.
Categorizing people is a two-sided blade. I try not to categorize, but I recognize the fact that we often categorize ourselves by gravitating to those we feel are most similar to ourselves. I have no problems speaking with someone that is quite different to me. I find those from different backgrounds interactions are the most interesting and enlightening liaisons. Even in conflict, those things that make us all different are evident and sometimes, we can even see the bizarre conclusions we make about someone based on where they are from, instead of who they