American Activist, Rodney King, is best known for asking the question “can we all just get along” on national television. This broadcast was made three days into the six day rioting in Los Angeles in April of 1992 where 66 citizens died. With over 1 billion dollars in damage, this was known as the most devastating civil disruptions in American history. When he delivers this statement followed by “can we stop making it horrible for the old people and the kids” you can hear the sincerity derived from fear in his voice.
King’s Statement of social harmony is so simple. Almost every religion strives for it and preaches it. So why is it so hard to achieve? Well, humans were wired to be logical, rather emotional. So when core values are threatened, humans tend to get defensive as a way of self-preservation against an irrational fear. Moreover, the less defensive we get, the more we appreciate other perspectives. Taking into account others opinions and outlook is critical to today’s globalizing world.
Adventures In The Life Of Mary M. 