When reflecting on the concept of cultural security, it is important to
be mindful of its multi-faceted existenceand its far-reaching impact
on individuals across the world,and,ifpondered from a theological
perspective, in thehereafter, too. Definitions of the term ‘culture’
are largely demographic in nature,premised on the idiosyncrasies
of a nation. They commonly focus on heritage and both the conservation
and celebration of diversity in architecture, art, clothes, cuisine,
language, literature, music, religion, tradition, and much more.
Culture is, therefore,the manifestation of a multi-layered reality, a
tool through which individuals craft their identity and their paths
through life. Thus, it is no surprise that the preservation of cultures
is of paramount importance to anthropologists, sociologists and
some theologians, and naturally, individuals whopossessan innate
desire to seek comfort in the familiar. However, in recent years, the
term cultural security has also taken on meanings other than those
associated exclusively with nations and individuals. |