The “Other”
Understanding cultural differences allows you to see a person who is different from you, as less of an “Other”. They are a person, like you, with their own points of reference, social roles, and belief system — not an “exotic” attraction to see on your tourist trip. In fact, it is an amazing thing to be able to share and learn from the different cultural values of new people you meet.
Please watch the video about Orientalism (above) to gain perspective on why it is important to not exoticize and categorize Balinese people and the country itself as “Other”.
If you’d like a deeper dive, you can also watch this seven minute video!
The “Self”
To be able to navigate others’ culture, it is important first understand your own and how it shapes your own reactions, behaviors and attitudes.
Explore this webpage to learn more about how culture influences your behavior and some of the major differences that can exist between cultures.
Reflection 8: Based on the characteristics described in the article, how would you describe your culture?