What is perspective
is reflecting one’s point of view whenever we talk about an issue be it political, socio-economic, religion and faith, etc? These different outlooks on the same topic are termed perspectives. In order to gain perspective on a topic or situation, one should first have in-depth knowledge on the same. Without having an idea of something, it’s impossible to derive an angle out of it. Probably, it might be a weak opinion that might underrate or overrate the subject in discussion.
Through this blog, I am planning to lay emphasis on how perspectives differ from time to time and how we learn to analyze and accept them.
Theory of knowledge
Theory of knowledge comprises a core theme, optional themes, and areas of knowledge. I intend to take up views on some of these to explore the role of perspectives and the degree to which they influence knowledge in different areas of knowledge. Answering the question ‘what is perspective?’ requires a dissection of several situations that I have researched to curate this blog for the IB cohort. The details of the theory of knowledge can be found here.
Knowledge and Politics
Politics in a country is probably the most debated area. In any country we take, the interests of different stakeholders cannot be met, which makes the Government in power incapable. Hence, there will be a rise in different standpoints validated by different groups. If the people at the ruling level are able to tackle at least some of the issues, then it can be called somewhat a win-win situation for them.
Let’s have a quick look at the Israel and Palestine Conflict. Since World War II, there has been bitterness among the Israelis and Palestinians, and it was conflict not resolved for over 100 years. The perspective that comes into the picture is Palestinians claiming their home ground and Jews who came around eventually and settled and called it their home after the holocaust and followed by the royal decree.
The Palestinian citizens are forced to evacuate their homes by the Jews and hence the conflict has no end and they recently started off attacking each other on this name. Both their claims for land are right in their individual perspective but coming on to a mutual ground requires more conscience than expected.
Let’s look into another example where the perception of artists was hindered during the reign of Adolf Hitler in Nazi Germany. The art which didn’t comply with the norms expected by the Nazis was termed as De-Generate Art and the artists were shamed for the same.
TOK CLASS ACTIVITIES:
Students can be asked to bring up a newspaper cutting on a political issue and discuss their perspective or approach on the same. The class can be later involved to put forward their viewpoints as well. They should be able to validate themselves around this question “When exposed to numerous competing ideologies and explanations, what makes an individual settle on a particular framework? Is there ever a neutral position from which to write about politics or from which to judge political opinions?”
To unlock the power of perspective and see the world through a multitude of lenses, embark on an enlightening journey that challenges your viewpoints and enriches your understanding. Discover how diverse perspectives shape our reality, influence our beliefs, and foster empathy.
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