3.2. Perception of Cultures through Dress

But still I do not want to live there because why; because we are social animals, we cannot live in isolation. If instead of that, I send dogs or maybe cows, lions, can we call it kind of they are my companions? I can stay with them, am I social now? Basically, no. I need fellow members who look like me, who can talk to me and with whom I can interact. It could be that someone is from my own country, it depends on someone's nation, race, or maybe some coming from the same town and village, geographical locations, or same occupations. We all comprise, want to live together, sometimes based on nation, race, linguistic groups, town, occupations, we want to live together and that’s how we form, create society and community.

This chunk discusses the fundamental need for social interaction among humans. Unlike animals, humans feel a strong need to connect with others who share similar backgrounds, languages, and cultures. The example of sending animals instead of humans highlights that, regardless of companionship, it does not fulfill our need for social connection. It emphasizes that building societies and communities stems from shared identities and interactions among individuals.

Consider a person moving to a new city. If they don't find friends or individuals from their cultural background, they might feel lonely despite living close to others. A person might find comfort and a sense of belonging by connecting with others who share the same culture, language, or lifestyle, demonstrating how social interactions and connections foster community.

What is missing is that simply being a social animal, I want interactions with each other. So, that is also true for any individuals, any social animals, human beings, we always seek interactions with each other and that’s how we form society so, interaction is so very important to form necessary to form a society.

This chunk underscores the significance of interaction in forming a society. It states that being social creatures, humans inherently seek meaningful relationships and interactions. This need for engagement is not just to prevent isolation but to nurture community bonds. By engaging with others, individuals contribute to the greater structure of society, suggesting that social interactions are foundational in building and maintaining societal frameworks.

Think of students in a school. They interact during classes, lunch, and extracurricular activities. These interactions are essential as they not only form friendships but also help build a supportive school culture, which is a microcosm of society. These connections foster collaboration and cooperation, essential elements for any community.

If I want to live there, okay and what is missing here like 3, 4, 5 people coming from same nations or same linguistic group or maybe same hometown, they are living together, what is missing there in this diagram, what is not there; that a society needs is missing, human beings are missing. I will again feel isolated. If I say no, you cannot talk to each other, you cannot share anything with each other, you cannot look at each other, you cannot help each other, you cannot marry, you cannot develop friendship; make friendship so, in that condition; in that conditions you cannot really make yourself social so.

This chunk reflects on the dynamics of social roles within a group. Even if people share commonalities, without interaction and the ability to build relationships—such as talking, helping, or marrying—they cannot fulfill their social needs. This highlights that interaction is not simply a matter of being in proximity to others; meaningful social connections are vital to feeling integrated into a community.

Imagine a neighborhood where everyone is from the same culture but never speaks or engages with one another. The residents might live side-by-side but lead isolated lives, which can lead to loneliness. Contrarily, if they engage in community activities or participate in local events, they can create friendships and strengthen communal bonds.

How do you make interactions, what helps to make social interactions and what kind of social interactions I should do; you will define that one. Suppose, if I am very close to someone when I am talking to him, is it okay or should I maintain some distance.

This chunk raises questions about the nature of social interactions and how to navigate them appropriately. The idea of distance in conversation highlights the importance of understanding social norms and boundaries. Knowing how to interact effectively promotes healthy relationships and fosters a sense of comfort among individuals.

In a packed subway train, knowing how to act is crucial. If a stranger stands too close without recognizing personal space, it may create discomfort. However, if one respects others' personal space while still engaging warmly with a smile or nod, it invites positive social interaction within the confined setting.

And this is very interesting that this lady thinks that other lady wearing a burka is everything covered but her eyes are what a cruel male-dominated society. On the other hand, that other lady with burka is saying that nothing covered but her eyes are open. Culture is a kind of lens through which you look into society how it is.

This chunk explores how clothing can convey cultural perceptions and assumptions. The example of two women viewing a burka highlights the differing interpretations depending on one’s cultural background. This illustrates how our clothing choices can represent deeper cultural meanings, leading others to perceive our social values and norms.

Consider the confusion when someone sees traditional Japanese kimonos versus casual Western attire. A kimono might signify formality and cultural heritage to one person, while another may view it simply as an exotic dress. Understanding these differences emphasizes the importance of recognizing how cultural attire reflects societal values and influences perceptions.

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