Question

Drawing upon a sociological perspective, define diversity consciousness and discuss why it is relevant/important with regards to various dimensions of diversity such as class, race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, ability, etc.

Answer 1

Diversity refers to the individuality and uniqueness of population across the world, on several aspects such as- class, race, ethnicity, culture, etc.

The awareness and acknowledgement of the fact that the society, community and workforce is emerging to be more diverse is known as Diversity Consciousness.

The importance of diversity consciousness are:

- Problem solving behavior is facilitated through multiple perspectives, allowing better brainstorming of ideas and analysis of same situation from varied angles.

- Reaching to creative conclusions and innovations.

- Enhanced and complex investigation of events by diverse minds lead to better decision making.

- Recognition and inclusiveness of multitude adds to the better productivity.

- Diversity is helpful in gaining knowledge and insights through cross-cultural interaction.

- Acceptance of diversity as a part of growth enhances tolerance and compassion towards individual differences and create chances for positive experiences.

- It creates chances for better experiences and open mindedness.

- It allows individuals to step beyond their available information and seek novel possibilities.

- The amount of available and employed skills are broadened.

- It helps to break several barriers (social, perceptual, linguistic, etc.) and overcome fixedness.

- It assists in developing a global mindset, recognizing one's own biases,and working towards adjustment to and embracing of practices beyond one's own understanding.

- It encourages a flexible attitude in dealing with people.