Monday, September 1, 2014

Chapter 2: Erikson


One small, but interesting part of chapter two caught my attention. On page 38 the text talks about Erikson's diverse studies and locations that he lived in. The text states that he was famed for his study of Gandhi in which he attributed Gandhi's ability to lead the Indian Revolution to be directly linked to his experience of other cultures. Likewise Erikson's diverse background and studies were considered to be of significance. This caught my attention because I think it are great example or aide to the articulation of why experiencing different cultures is important. Colleges emphasis and support semesters abroad, trips and travel. Many people, including myself, can attribute a large part of their development to travel. However, it is often hard to articulate what exactly about living in a different culture is so powerful or beneficial. Erikson's studies as described by the text brought to my attention the idea of a psychosocial self and the benefits of being exposed to cultures which have different norms or elements that can be crafting to your identity. Well, these benefits are well known, this was the first time I'd ever seen mention of such benefits is any scientific or academic study. Discovering information such as the above is one of my favorite aspects of taking different classes and I am looking forward to learning more this semester.

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