Why Difference Is Important
Every single person on this planet is different in some way. Most people have one of two responses: either it is the source of insecurity or pride. For those who feel uncomfortable with difference, comfort is found in conformity. That is no bad thing, but when those same people take that fear to an extreme level and try to outlaw difference in others, in order that everyone might be the same, that is not only a sure path to authoritarianism but to misunderstand the very value and wonder of difference itself.
The idea that each individual is different is often the source of much anxiety, certainly for those that take comfort from sameness and commonality. For if we are all different, they ask, on what basis do we relate? And if we cannot connect to others, the world becomes a harrowing prospect. And so, very often, in those societies and ideologies where homogeny is promoted, difference plays a prominent role: an omnipresent fear against which people are encouraged to unite.
It is mistakenly assumed that the idea of difference – and, with it, diversity – is irreconcilable with sameness or uniformity. But this is not so. In contrast, the two enjoy a special relationship. Sameness is the benchmark by which one gauges difference, which is its greatest attribute, likewise in the other direction. Each one without the other loses its value. Without identifying those things we have in common with others, it is not possible to determine in what ways we are different. The two ideas are not mutually exclusive, only difference is particular – a precise point of departure – and sameness is general – a generic point of reference.
Why is difference such a threat? Certainly, the idea of alienation is an unpleasant one, but, in the other direction, the idea that each person is unique, the potential source of great pride – a guarantee that our lives and its consequences will be without precedent. The greatest threat is when we fear being different but the very nature of that difference: when those things particular to a person become the source of low self-esteem. And there can be no sadder state of affairs, for difference is the lifeblood of so many good and positive things: competition, progress; tolerance; choice; innovation.
Why is difference such a threat?
Certainly, the idea of alienation is an unpleasant one, but, in the other direction, the idea that each person is unique, the potential source of great pride – a guarantee that our lives and its consequences will be without precedent. The greatest threat is when we fear being different but the very nature of that difference: when those things particular to a person become the source of low self-esteem. And there can be no sadder state of affairs, for difference is the lifeblood of so many good and positive things: competition, progress; tolerance; choice; innovation.
In societies where sameness is emphasised over difference, all of these things suffer as a consequence. Sameness might well appear to offer the benefit of safety, but that is just a pretence. It seeks to control difference. And that is to ensure its transformation into anger – something which, ultimately, cannot be suppressed.
Our human experience is only made possible because there are differences between us. Difference is our connecting thread to one another's humanity. So rather than insisting on equality because we are all the same, we should instead be celebrating our differences. When we are deaf to differences, we fail to hear what others are feeling or needing—that doesn't help us rally for greater equality on their behalf.
Being honest about how and where we see differences can also help us let go of judgments. Equal vision means "equal regard for friends, companions, neutral arbiters, hateful people, relatives, saints, and sinners. While we rightfully demand equality for every person in society, if we want to progress on a path of true inclusion, we should also aim to see those who oppose equality as no less than us.
To move towards equality, we have to change society's perception of the word "difference." Because different is good, different is beautiful. Different is why we are even here.
