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In "solid modernity" difference was tolerated as a…

“In "solid modernity" difference was tolerated as a temporary irritant only, expected to disappear tomorrow, when "those aliens" will become like us. "Living with strangers" was therefore not something to last and did not call for developing appropriate arts and skills. Now, however, it looks like…” quote by Zygmunt Bauman
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“In "solid modernity" difference was tolerated as a temporary irritant only, expected to disappear tomorrow, when "those aliens" will become like us. "Living with strangers" was therefore not something to last and did not call for developing appropriate arts and skills. Now, however, it looks like that diasporic context of our living will not go away - it will be there forever, so learning how to live with strangers day in, day out without abandoning my own strangeness is high on the agenda.”

Zygmunt Bauman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Society now faces permanent cultural diversity, requiring ongoing adaptation and mutual respect.

In simple terms: We must learn to coexist with strangers permanently.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate empathy and skills for lifelong intercultural living.

Themes

diversity intercultural relations adaptation identity solidarity

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • immigration policy
  • workplace diversity
  • urban community building
  • online social platforms

Key Concepts

liquid modernity social integration cultural hybridity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can institutions support genuine inclusion?
  • What personal habits foster openness without self‑erosion?
A Different Perspective

Assuming all strangers can be integrated may overlook power imbalances and systemic barriers.

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