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How has intercultural communication evolved over time?

Jadyn Sked

Intercultural communication has come a long way over time, and it has been a fascinating journey to follow. In the past, communication between cultures was often limited to a few exchanges, such as trade, diplomacy, or war, and was plagued by many barriers such as language, customs, or conflicting values. However, with the advent of globalization and digital technology, intercultural communication has evolved to become more frequent, complex, and creative, offering many opportunities for learning, exchange, cooperation, and co-creation.

One of the most remarkable changes in intercultural communication has been the emergence of a global language, English, which has become the lingua franca of the world and a powerful tool for communication, education, and innovation. While English has created some challenges for linguistic diversity and cultural identity, it has also enabled many people to connect across borders, share ideas, and express themselves in new ways. Moreover, it has encouraged many cultures to reflect on their own language and identity, and to value their own diversity and uniqueness.

Another major change in intercultural communication has been the rise of social media, which has transformed the way we communicate and interact with others. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok have enabled millions of people to connect, share, and collaborate across cultures, and to express their opinions, emotions, and identities in diverse ways. Social media has also created new forms of cultural production, such as memes, viral videos, or online gaming, which have become global phenomena and cultural trends.

One of the most exciting aspects of intercultural communication today is the possibility of creating new forms of knowledge and innovation by combining different cultural perspectives and practices. The concept of intercultural competence, which refers to the ability to understand, appreciate, and adapt to different cultural contexts, is becoming more important than ever in a globalized world where cultural diversity is both a challenge and an opportunity. Intercultural competence requires not only linguistic skills, but also empathy, curiosity, flexibility, and creativity, and can be developed through various learning contexts such as intercultural projects, exchanges, or collaborations.

In sum, intercultural communication has evolved over time to become a dynamic and multifaceted phenomenon, full of opportunities and challenges. While it has created some tensions and conflicts, it has also encouraged many people to explore new horizons, to value their own culture and others, and to create new forms of knowledge and innovation. As a user of social media and a global citizen, I believe that intercultural communication is essential for our collective future and that we must continue to invest in it and to celebrate its richness and diversity.