Gaining A Global Perspective on Diversity – Nu Leadership Series

An intellectual is a man who takes more words than necessary to tell more than he knows.
Dwight D. Eisenhower

As the Middle East spirals into another crisis, global leaders wonder how to solve the Hezbollah and Israel war. This situation has sent a shockwave through the international community. America stands as a possible loser. Arab Muslims watch America’s move and view it as Western Imperialism. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice races to save the Middle East. Americans again braces for another threat of a “Third World War.”

Let’s go deeper. America is dealing with the Arab world a different cultural setting. It uses Western perspective. Clearly, this perspective is showcased in the media where Middle East experts of Arab descent are absent. Therefore, the Western perception often skews our coverage and understanding.

Finally, our American values appear to be in conflict with the international community. For example, America is the democracy builder. Can we, however, allow Iraqi or any other Middle East country to become an Islamic state? It isn’t in America’s best interest. America is Israel’s ally. Can America remain neutral in this Middle East conflict? Would happens when the international community’s values differs with a Super Power?

Therefore, these international conflicts may place a global leader at odds with his strategic thinking and his core values.

References:

Beale, Stone, A. (2006). US faces dilemma in Mid-East crisis. Received on July 24, 2006, from http://www.frreerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1666015/posts

Stone, A. (2006). Rice will seek long-term fix to Mideast crisis. Received on July 24, 2006, from http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2006-07-23-rice-mission_x.htm?csp=34

© 2006 by Daryl D. Green