Beyond Cultural Tolerance: How 'Worlding Literature' Can Help Us Understand Each Other

'Worlding literature' offers a dynamic perspective on intercultural relations, moving beyond the limitations of traditional cultural tolerance. Unlike traditional approaches that often emphasize tolerance, which can sometimes reinforce existing power structures and fall short of genuine understanding, 'worlding literature' proposes an interconnected approach. It challenges the view of cultures as separate entities and emphasizes the fundamental relationships that exist prior to and beyond established cultural boundaries. This perspective encourages us to see the world as a space where diverse modes of existence coexist and influence each other in complex ways.

Tolerance, within traditional approaches, can be problematic because it often implies merely putting up with something perceived as different or strange, rather than genuinely valuing and embracing it. It can also reinforce power imbalances where one culture is seen as the 'norm' and others are viewed as 'different'. The limitations of tolerance stem from focusing on the surface level of cultural expression without delving into the underlying relationships and power dynamics. This can lead to the oversimplification of cultures into stereotypes and the commodification of cultural practices, where genuine understanding is sacrificed for superficial harmony.

'Worlding literature' provides a powerful framework for moving beyond tolerance and engaging in more meaningful intercultural connections by recognizing the underlying interconnectedness of all beings. This approach encourages embracing vulnerability and listening to diverse narratives. By recognizing the fundamental relationships that exist prior to and beyond established cultural boundaries, it fosters a more inclusive and equitable understanding. This helps in building bridges across cultures.

Traditional approaches often fall short in several ways. One is oversimplification of cultures into stereotypes for easy understanding. Another is the reinforcement of existing power imbalances, where one culture is seen as the 'norm' and others are considered 'different'. The commodification of cultural practices, such as tourism or entertainment, strips them of deeper meaning. Traditional approaches also often inadequately address historical injustices and ongoing inequalities, focusing on surface-level interactions rather than the underlying relationships that shape the world. These limitations highlight the need for a more dynamic and interconnected approach, such as that offered by 'worlding literature'.

Adopting a 'worlding literature' approach has several important implications in a globalized world. It fosters a deeper understanding of diverse cultures by recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings and embracing vulnerability. This helps build bridges and cultivate a more inclusive and equitable world, where all voices are heard and valued. By moving beyond tolerance, which can be superficial and reinforce power dynamics, 'worlding literature' promotes genuine intercultural understanding and empathy. This approach challenges us to see the world as a space where different modes of human and non-human existence coexist and influence each other in complex ways, leading to more meaningful connections.