Third Session of Diversity Dialogue: International Interface on Personal and Political Themes

Flag of Afghanistan

National Emblem of Afghanistan

Map of Afghanistan

Flag of Argentina

National Emblem of Argentina

Map of Argentina

Flag of Bolivia

National Emblem of Bolivia

Map of Bolivia

Flag of Brazil

Emblem of Brazil

Map of Brazil

Flag of Chile

National Emblem of Chile

Map of Chile

Flag of France

National Emblem of France

Map of France

Flag of India

National Emblem of India

Map of India

Flag of South Korea

National Emblem of South Korea

Map of South Korea

Map of Tajikistan

National Emblem of Tajikistan

Map of Tajikistan

Flag of Turkey

National Emblem of Turkey

Map of Turkey

Flag of the United Kingdom

National Emblem of the United Kingdom

Map of the United Kingdom

Flag of the United States of America

National Emblem of the United States of America

Map of the United States of America

Open Space organised the third session of its series Diversity Dialogue, "An International Interface on Personal and Political Themes" with students from thirteen countries and four continents, on Saturday, 18th October, 2008 at the Department of Philosophy. All foreign students belonged to the Heritage Institute of Languages, Lucknow. Some of the interesting responses to the questions asked at the session were as follows:

Is your perception of India after having lived here for some time now, any different from what it was before?

The main idea people have about India in the West or outside is one of a very respectable nation, culture and people. I think that concept has changed a little! People generally are very "selfish" and it's all about "me", getting my way done, others don't matter.
On the other hand, I think my respect has grown a lot in seeing how ready people are to persevere in pursuing what they dream, despite the competition and hardship.

What do you think is responsible for the global financial crisis?

I think the current global financial crisis shows or reveals some defects of the capitalistic system and financial management of the western countries.

What do you think is causing the Muslims to become increasingly aggressive across the world, more than any other religious community?

According to me, the only factor behind the aggression is the neglect the whole Muslim community suffers from just because of a few who indulge in terrorist activities. The whole community has to bear the grudge.

What is the most commonly held misconception about your country?

In my opinion it the perception that we are very traditional or orthodox. I think those who say this don't understand our traditional values fully. Out traditions have a very wide spectrum, and before saying anything about them, one must understand them properly.

Can the status of minorities in a country be considered the index of how successful it is as a democracy?

It definitely ought to be considered the index of its success.