Cosmopolitanism

Kwame Anthony Appiah uses the term "cosmopolitanism" to say that people are not just a part of their own community, they are a part of the world.  Cosmopolitan literally means "citizen of the cosmos," implying that what we do affects everyone else in the world (and possibly universe).  He also stresses the idea of tolerance in the world, the idea of coexisting with people of different beliefs from us.  There is no right or wrong, just a matter of opinion.  One of the best ways to coexist in the world peacefully is to talk.  Conversation is a way to learn about others' beliefs and backgrounds and learn to tolerate or even accept them.  We have to break down the barriers of "patriotism," in order to begin seeing things from other cultural stand points.  It is okay to alter a culture because it brings two cultures closer together.  Appiah uses the example of his father's circumcision to support this argument.  Circumcision was not a part of his father's culture, but it is important to be flexible with your beliefs.  The human race is often proud of the differences that make every person unique, but it is also important to share a sense of unity with the people all around you.  Disagreement is the source of conflict.