Prologue - Part I
There are only two CULTURES in the world: bacteria and human consciousness. Each capable of growing beyond its origins – in spite of their surroundings.
Culture is widely considered and accepted as the human expression of language, the arts and sciences, spirituality, and social interaction. Since time and immemorial, philosophers and social anthropologists have deliberated how these aspects of human development define us.
I’m not one to challenge scholarship about humankind’s sociological comparatives. I’ll leave it to academia and history to debate.
My edification of culture is more introspective, rooted in personal experiences and narratives. I believe all facets of human nature begin with consciousness, self-awareness and self-empowerment.
As to when, or if ever, intuitive individual distinctiveness happens; it varies between people and is unquestionably influenced by allegiances, peer pressure, and circumstances. But it stirs within us all, awaiting awakening, consideration and a rallying call.
Culture is not in our DNA; it’s not a birthright. Communal authority teaches our norms and customs. As children, we have little choice, but to absorb what is encouraged, promoted and expected. We’re innocents, compliant and susceptible to the edicts of our hosts.
Nevertheless, during our lifetime, we have the opportunity, if not an obligation to seek enlightenment outside the margins of prevailing social attitudes and convention. At what point then, do we become mindful and question our public and private norms and place in the world?
The truth is that, it’s different for all of us. Some of us choose at an early age; some of us evolve over time; some of us never do. It’s a choice. And that’s the point. We all possess the power at some time in our lives to view the world of our choosing.
Given this awareness, I chose to explore the world outside my own. Throughout my lifetime, I’ve crisscrossed America (virtually every state) and traveled to scores of countries around the world. I’ve come to the realization that cultural group dynamics is predisposed to cultivate fealty over personal self-worth and growth. I discovered - and it cannot be overstated - that societal pressure suppresses individuality.
However, the subjugation resulting from it can be mitigated through self-examination of thoughts, ideas & motives. Introspection and self-sufficiency are capable of liberating us from cultural bias, conformity, and captivity.
If we seek and are ever to find, relevance and our rightful place in the world, we must first free ourselves from tribal identity. In so doing, we’re freed from factional influence, definitions and expectations. We cannot appreciate complementary or divergent people or realize our full human potential unless and until we escape (our) culture.
I’m not suggesting abandoning legacy, be it race, ethnicity, religion, national or familial, but rather advocate breaking away from its overpowering authority and control. Liberation pardons us to explore and gain new perspectives, personage, and balance.
End of Prologue, Part I
Look for: Prologue, Part II. “As an existentialist, I believe in personal choice regardless of traditions, ethnic rules or any laws.”
Book Intro Post: https://steemit.com/@escapingculture “Escaping Culture” – Essays of love, life, death, humor, sacrifice, accomplishment and redemption.
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Keep the good work going! Nice explanation!