In this modern world, there are many misconceptions about many cultures.
At the same time, there are variations on ideas and cultures that break off from their original forms.
These variations are often called counter or subcultures.
Whether the culture is ethnic, musical,lifestyle many variants can affect how a culture is percieved.
Example: After the murders that were committed by the Manson family,
the hippie counterculture as a whole suffered undue stigma and ridicule.
After the shootings at columbine,
the Gothic subculture suffered similar ridicule.
Many people call countries that have rites of passage we don't understand uncivilized.
Why do these stigmas develop? Because, as Newton's Law points out,
"For every action there is a reaction."
However, Newton's Law suggests that all reactions are equal to the original action.
I beg to differ, some reactions are based on false beliefs or stereotypes fueled by the fear that all people of a certain group or society are the same.
This however is what is called undue prejudice.
One member of a group doing wrong,or another society engaging in what some of us consider taboo
doesn't necessarily speak for everyone in that group or society.
Best thing to do, don't jump to a conclusion about a society or culture as a whole based solely on the actions of a select few. Find out all you can about the society or culture, this will allow someone to avoid passing biased or unfair judgment.
Take this age old biblical advice: "Judge not, lest ye be judged". Just because people are different is no reason to ridicule,hate or stereotype them.
