Do you think that the misconception of foreigners is a greater challenge than an increase in competition for resources? Explain your answers.
Opportunities to interact with people of different backgrounds may lead to misunderstandings, especially when differences in cultural background lead to differing or conflicting views on values, beliefs, and customs. Negative stereotypes also known as prejudices, arise from misconceptions linked to nationality, race and ethnicity, religion or socio-economic status. It may lead to discrimination against a certain social group because it would result in them being hurt or excluded from interactions in society. [Description]
One example of prejudice was exhibited by a form Permanent Resident. In 2014, he posted a photograph of his son on the MRT on social media along with the caption 'Daddy where is your car and who are all these poor people?' He later put up another post of his son in his newly repaired luxury sports car. Singaporeans who saw his posts were outraged and as a result of his post and people’s criticism, he lost his job. He and his family left Singapore. Such prejudice and discrimination can lead to resentment and strained relationships among groups. [Example]
This shows that if actions and opinions are expressed in an irresponsible manner, it might lead to misunderstandings and weaken the social cohesion that has been established. This fragmentation in our society may even result in social unrest if the issue is not addressed in time. Hence the increase in misconceptions and prejudices is a challenge in an increasingly diverse society. [Explanation]
Increased competition for resources is another challenge in an increasingly diverse society. Competition for resources can come in the form of opportunities for work and can lead to negative interactions and tensions among many Singaporeans and foreigners in Singapore. With the inflow of foreigners in Singapore, Singaporeans are concerned about a lower standard of living and social mobility in the country. [Description]
For example, the increasing number of foreigners creates competition for jobs and promotion opportunities for Singaporeans. In addition, lower-skilled foreign workers may also be the reason for wages to remain low for Singaporeans in the lower income group as employers would rather hire foreign workers as they are cheaper. [Example]
Hence, competition for resources causes Singaporeans to feel apprehensive towards foreigners and view them negatively. This affects the way Singaporeans interact with foreigners leading to tension and disharmony. This can lead to xenophobia against foreigners which could be detrimental to our economy as we may face severe manpower shortage if foreigners stop coming to Singapore. Hence increased competition for resources is a challenge in an increasingly diverse society. [Explanation]
Developing prejudice and misconceptions is a bigger concern for Singapore than increased competition for resources because it has a longer-lasting effect on Singapore and Singaporeans.[Make a stand]
If there are limited resources, the government can do something to reduce the concerns. They can build more housing, regulate employment policies, etc as a solution to the increased competition.
However, prejudice and misconceptions are long-lasting cultural habits and social norms that can prove to be difficult to eradicate from society. These misconceptions and prejudices can last for generations, leading to a fragmented society. This would hurt the nation even more than the competition for resources as it is a problem that has far-reaching effects into the future.