Like aerodynamics, social dynamics involve working with conflicts, not avoiding them.
Since we are all made differently, we accept change at various speed.
That’s why some ideas are voted down immediately.
Others might take some arm-twisting.
For instance, it took a while for some emerging countries to introduce the condoms. Used to be a cultural taboo to mention the subject of sex.
Now, you can find Condom Store in Vietnam.
Years ago, people there were rushing abroad to seek better life.
Now, they would rather see returnees marry them and settle there: best of both worlds.
The West has lost some of its luster.
Besides, “Western” draws have made their ways there: KFC, Carl’s Jr, Domino Pizza, Hard Rock Cafe, Starbucks and LV handbags.
Why not stay home and wait for it (the West) to come.
I came back to SF airport and found on my flight mostly of Asian origins. Are there any Westerners touring Asia these days?
In Asia, people tend not to disagree with you out right.
They accumulate the points of differences, and give them back to you in one fell swoop.
Ouch!
You thought silence was consent.
People skilled in diplomacy anticipated opposite reaction and worked that into their presentation. It’s called getting the buy-in.
But in the end, it’s all in the relationships.
People-people bonds are stronger than idea-idea boundaries.
Let’s build more bridges than barriers.
Knowing in the absence of conflict, we don’t have real dialogue.
Differences define us and strengthen us as people living in a pluralistic society. Like aerodynamics, social dynamics need to face some headwinds and opposing ideas to rise.
Thang Nguyen 555 