The universality of culture and art in the face of racism and xenophobia

Abstract

Racist and xenophobic movements tend to highlight cultural differences, and to endow their own culture with greater value whilst deriding that of others. Yet beneath the apparent diversity of cultures and human behaviours (including artistic behaviour) is to be found a fundamental anthropological unit, based on a common genetic inheritance, which binds all human beings and their cultures together, and which belies discriminatory prejudices. Yet racism and xenophobia are also fed by the very nature of human beings, who instinctively tend to take care of themselves and their loved ones, whilst ignoring those who are not close to them. Some scientists believe that genetic manipulation or education might be able to counteract the most selfish and pernicious human instincts, and encourage altruistic behaviour and cooperation.