Final answer:
Van der Elst would suggest that individuals are often 'prisoners of our culture,' shaped by its confines but also influenced by the dynamics of globalization and cultural exchange. The balance between preserving cultural identity and embracing global integration is delicate, as cultural diffusion can lead to both the loss of unique traditions and the enrichment of society. Critics worry that in a fully globalized world, the preservation of cultural values is at stake, yet erecting barriers could lead to greater conflict and loss of civilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the provided context, van der Elst might assert that individuals can become prisoners of our culture, confined by its values and views. However, as society evolves and technologies advance, cultures can blend or clash, leading to both the globalization of ideas and intense cultural preservation efforts. The statement, "If we lose our cultural values, we will be forced to replace them with other people's values," by Abdoulaye, embodies the tension between cultural integration vs. identity loss in a globalizing world. Furthermore, this interaction often leaves individuals questioning their values after being exposed to different cultures, as can be seen in the experiences of exchange students or those comparable to the Allegory of the Cave.
The concern expressed by critics of globalization is that by removing the walls that define and protect our cultures, people may lose their sense of identity and belonging. However, van der Elst might argue that closing borders and erecting barriers in an attempt to preserve culture can lead to misunderstanding, reduced trade, and conflict. In contrast, the cultivation of culture, much like agriculture, requires nurturing and protection, yet it thrives on adaptation, innovation, and cultural diffusion. We are reminded that while culture offers comfort, societies flourish through shared values and heritage, and culture evolves by actively questioning values and embracing change.