After examining
this last section of The Conquest of
America I feel that I have a greater understanding of the conquest, the
intricacies behind the Spaniards motivation and in a bigger picture the
connotations that exist between the “I” and the “Other”. Something that came to
my mind near the end of our discussion was whether or not this is all human
nature? Now I believe extreme cruelty and brutality is not natural, it is
developed over time by environmental factors. However, to some degree I believe
it is human nature to find the easiest path to our goals. For the Spaniards it
was easier for them to categorize the natives as inferior, stupid beings who
needed to be guided towards a European lifestyle or be killed so they could
reap the complete benefits of the land of the Americas. This is wrong. Nevertheless,
it made me think about this view of human nature and how it would apply to
today’s world. People, in my opinion, have a very narrow understanding of how
to interact with those who are different than themselves. Unfortunately, I
think it is almost impossible for an average human to not categorize and fit
people into their personal hierarchies. Projecting one’s core values and
knowledge of how to do life onto others is something we all do on small or
large scales. I think it almost inevitable to encounter another and not subconsciously
place them within our personal hierarchies or try to project ourselves upon
them.
If anyone wants
to have a conversation about this or is confused, you know where to find me or
comment below.
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