Final answer:
The universe of obligation concept elucidates how individuals are othered by shaping our ethical perspective towards inclusivity, reducing ethnocentrism, and enhancing our understanding of marginalized viewpoints. It emphasizes the importance of diverse stories in recognizing common humanity and respect for all cultural narratives.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of a 'universe of obligation' helps us understand how people are 'othered' by framing the way we recognize and prioritize our responsibilities and ethical commitments to others. It allows us to see the worth, dignity, and respect of all persons, encouraging the initial exchange and collaboration between 'us' and 'them'. By exploring different stories, it mitigates the single story effect, which can strip people of dignity by obscuring our common humanity and emphasizing differences.
Furthermore, the concept is crucial in reminding us to approach other cultures without defaulting to superiority judgments, thereby reducing 'ethnocentrism' and promoting a more inclusive view of human potential. Additionally, societies use moral norms enforced by community members to guide behavior. Recognizing our moral obligations and seeing our reflections in others' reactions allows for the development of a personal sense of self and community.
Ultimately, our understanding of 'otherness' can be enhanced by considering the viewpoints of those traditionally marginalized, addressing power dynamics and ensuring that everyone's experiences contribute to our global narrative. This perspective shifts the focus away from 'Earth chauvinism' and acknowledges the varied ways nature can arrange reality, whether looking at social structures or the wider universe.