Final answer:
Many Americans are unprepared to acknowledge and respect cultural diversity and have a skewed understanding of both domestic and international societal dynamics. This can be attributed to educational shortcomings and a sense of superiority. Addressing these issues involves education on different cultures, active efforts to undo racism, and embracing the nation's diversity as a strength.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many Americans are unprepared to recognize numerous aspects of the world and societal dynamics outside of themselves. This lack of preparation is partly due to a faulty sense of superiority stemming from a flawed educational system. For instance, the return of nativism has led to an increasing suspicion towards non-natives, reflecting a possible lack of understanding and appreciation for cultural diversity. Additionally, there is a pervasive ignorance of both world geography and domestic cultural and demographic processes. To address this, it's recommended that college-educated individuals take at least two introductory human geography courses, one focusing on domestic topics and the other on the non-Western world.
The concept of the 'Big Salad' mentality, as opposed to the 'Melting Pot', encourages the belief that like different ingredients in a salad, all groups of people have unique contributions to make without losing their cultural identities. This diversity can strengthen the nation if recognized and valued. Moreover, undoing built-in racism requires active measures, such as holding discussions and educating oneself on the history and cultures of different racial groups.
Historically, U.S. involvement in foreign affairs, particularly in the Americas, has led to resentment and a legacy of perceived bullying. The changing demographics and the projected shift to a majority of people of color and multiethnic Americans, has also stirred anxieties among those who fear a loss of a perceived White majority's hold on the country's socio-cultural fabric.
Religious institutions and individuals professing faith in God are called to reflect God's love and live by His teachings, such as those in Matthew 5, to love neighbors as themselves. The lack of love and caring at a fundamental level can be the root of societal issues. The challenge remains for Americans to live up to these ideals and create a spirit of togetherness in the country.