Excerpt from Email 15th May 2009

Cosmopolitism calls for the de-positivisation of the forms of justice as well as ideas of justice itself…The idea of justice can take on very different meanings, depending on whether we are dealing with African or European society. How far can we be- and are we- prepared to accept these different meanings?

The answer lies not in the chosen solution, but in the explanations that are given for it. One will only be able to talk about dialogue if all parties have an equal right  to put forward proposals and an equal chance to convince the other. In other words, it is only when the West (I do not identify with the west but I am as much guilty) allows itself to be transformed by the other, when it begins to learn from societies that are different, that true universalism will begin. 

(Antoine Garapon)

How am I allowing myself to be transformed? Can I, can You, can We, all appreciate the subjectivities of the Afghans? That is one step. More importantly, Can we be transformed by them? What courage it’ll take to allow ourselves to. What noble endeavour it will be. 

I am thinking along these lines. Education has contributed to my arrogance; It is time exercise some humility and choose instead to learn from them. 

Love, 
Singapore Sister