Geostrategic Media Political Commentary, Analysis, Security, Defense
Tereza Felix
In the 21st century, humanity continues to grapple with the chasms that divide beliefs, ideologies, political claims, and practices. These differences have transcended mere politics or economics, evolving into profound cultural disparities—a transformation astutely observed by political scientist Samuel Huntington in his seminal work, “The Clash of Civilizations.”
Huntington posited that the primary sources of global conflict have shifted from ideological battles—like those between capitalism, democracy, and communism—to cultural and civilizational clashes. He argued that in our era, culture supersedes politics and economics as the main arena of international contention. These cultural traditions, with their rich tapestries and distinct identities, undeniably shape world affairs and influence the modern global landscape.
Defining a civilization as a cultural entity, Huntington highlighted the spectrum of cultural groupings—from villages and “barangays” to regions, ethnicities, nationalities, and religious communities. Each possesses unique cultural attributes at varying levels of complexity. For instance, a barangay in Payatas, Philippines, contrasts starkly with a village in Buffalo, New York. Yet, both represent the “highest cultural grouping of people,” embodying the broadest level of cultural identity. Such identities, however, can become sources of tension. When one culture perceives another as a threat, conflicts arise. To mitigate these, Huntington suggested strengthening individual civilizational identities and, controversially, advocated against multiculturalism and unchecked migration.
Historically, civilizations have been recognized not merely by their population size but by their influence and achievements. Ancient world history teaches us that a civilization’s prowess was demonstrated through its military might, territorial acquisitions, economic sustainability, architectural marvels, and, crucially, its governance. Effective leadership cultivated loyalty, ensuring the civilization’s longevity and stability.
It’s both natural and beneficial for civilizations to possess unique features. These distinctions foster a sense of belonging among their people and allow civilizations to leave indelible marks on the international community. Yet, in our interconnected world, these very differences can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts.
Diplomacy emerges as the beacon of hope in navigating these challenges. Through genuine negotiation and mutual recognition, state actors can bridge divides. This necessitates openness from officials and residents alike, fostering collective agreements that advance shared interests.
However, the advent of technology presents a double-edged sword. While it offers unprecedented connectivity, it also threatens to erode cultural practices, especially among the youth. The dominance of social networking sites, for instance, can lead to the abandonment of traditions, diluting the very essence of a civilization.
Huntington’s foresight rings true today: large cultural units, not just states, are pivotal actors in world affairs. Societies worldwide aspire for political orders that recognize and respect all cultures and communities. While differences can lead to conflicts, they also offer opportunities for complementarity and mutual enrichment.
Recent global events underscore these cultural and civilizational clashes. From Russia’s incursion into Ukraine and the tensions between Palestine and Israel to disputes in the South China Sea involving China and its neighbors, the world witnesses both nation-to-nation and people-to-people struggles. Internal crises, like those in Bangladesh, Pakistan, parts of the Middle East, Africa, Venezuela, Mexico, and Cuba, further attest to the challenges of achieving harmony amid diversity. These conflicts prompt reflection: Are cultural and religious identities truly the primary sources of discord, as Huntington suggested?
Yet, hope persists. Peace often germinates in local contexts. While cultural differences can be sources of contention, they also offer rich tapestries to be celebrated. Openness and respect become vital tools in fostering love, consolidating international security, and nurturing unity in multicultural societies.
In conclusion, while cultural differences can precipitate conflicts, transcending these boundaries paves the way for peace. Across arenas—be it politics, religion, or economics—a deep understanding and appreciation of each other’s uniqueness emerge as the ultimate catalysts for unity. Embracing our diverse identities doesn’t have to lead to a clash; instead, it can be the foundation for a more harmonious global community.
