Understanding and embracing cultural differences is an essential step toward building cross-cultural connections and maintaining communication and experience exchange. Thus, examining the traditions and belief systems of other cultures represents a critical step for scholars and researchers. Specifically, the examination of social stratification and cultural practices associated with social hierarchy from Neolithic times to the present-day setting will shed light on the further path of sociocultural development.
In his narrative detailing the specifics of gender roles and marital traditions among the Gikuyu people, Jomo Kenyatta explores the unique aspects of the specified culture. Remarkably, not all of the concepts and ideas that Kenyatta coveys in his story are entirely alien to the average reader. For instance, the concept of gender roles and the associated hierarchy within the Gikuyu community reminds of the similar concepts that used to dominate the Western sociocultural narrative. Specifically, the direct connection between the limitations of the physical abilities and the associated tasks defines the distribution of responsibilities within the Gikuyu community (Kenyatta 2). However, the author also narrates some of the more unique characteristics of the specified culture, particularly, the marital traditions accepted in it.
Examining cultural perceptions and traditions of other ethnicities is a vital step toward cross-cultural exchange and continuous learning. The narrative by Kenyatta offers a n opportunity to take a glimpse at some of the foundational traditions of the Gikuyu people that constitute the bulk of their society. Thus, the specified chapter bears particular importance for encouraging cultural exchange and cultural competence. Specifically, it expands the bandwidth of the perceptions of other cultures and introduces a chance at exploring other traditions and philosophies. Though the specified concepts might seem alien to the reader, the opportunity to familiarize oneself with them still represents a vital step in cross-cultural learning.
Work Cited
Kenyatta, Jomo. Facing Mount Kenya: The Tribal Life of the Gikuyu. Vintage Books, 1965