Unity in Diversity
Unity can be defined as oneness, and diversity as difference. Unity in diversity is a socio-ecological philosophy that describes a sense of oneness despite physical or psychological barriers. It is a worldwide approach e.g. it is the official European motto, official motto of South Africa, and many other countries. This term is also the name of an Australian movement responding to the 2005 Cronulla riots in Sydney.
Diversity is the greatest strength. Diversity can be social or cultural difference. Diversity in itself is a wonderful thing, as it enriches the world, flourishing it with multi-national cultures and customs. The foundations of the human ability to adapt which leads to unity are found not in genes but in culture and society. Culture has to do with customs of people, and society has to do with people who are practicing customs. Culture provides the meanings that enable human beings to interpret their experiences and guide their actions, whereas society represents the networks of social relations that arise among people. Diversity without unity makes about as much sense as dishing up flour, sugar, water, eggs, shortening and baking powder on a plate, in place of a cake.
Experts advocate a single sociology, whose ultimate unity rests on acknowledging the universality of human reasoning: to endorse a single world,; and to predicate any services the discipline can give to this world upon accepting the fundamental unity of humanity. Instead of endorsing either unity or diversity, the task of international sociology is to specify how global mechanisms combine with regional circumstances, in non-uniform fashion to promote a rapid increase of cross border social, cultural and technological exchange, to shape unity in diversity. The phrase `unity in diversity’ is widely used to describe India, which is home to a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual and multi-religious society. The subcontinent’s long and diverse history has given it a unique eclectic culture. The philosophy is the underlying pan-Indian philosophy echoed in textbooks throughout India. Few countries in the world have a tradition, culture, and variety as diverse as this multi-faceted land called India. Its large size has given rise to different types of regional diversities and they are flourishing. The physical features of the country and its climate have contributed to the development of these diversities. Each region has its own distinct style and flavor in its folk form of music and dance, and mutual influences are not rare. Distinct style and character can be seen in paintings, sculpture architecture, poetry and other traditions of the country. Each and every region and religion of the country portrays different customs and traditions. India won’t be India if not for this diversity. If India means Kanchivaram sari then India also means Pashmina shawl. If India means extreme hot climate of the south India, then India also means the snow covered mountains of the north India. If India means the desert of
Rajasthan then India also means the highest rainfall grounds of Assam! The very phrase ‘unity in diversity’ represents India and vice versa. Modern India presents a picture of unity in diversity where people of different faiths and beliefs live together in peace and harmony and world peace is the only motto of all Indians. Mark Twain said, “India is the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grand mother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only”.
