World Politics and the like

Intercultural understanding and communication is the most essential aspect of world politics. A mutual understanding of the cultures of states and peoples involved in diplomatic relations are crucial. The process of establishing positive communication across completely different cultures and backgrounds is a difficult process that I believe many of us overlook. For the most part, we come from similar backgrounds and situations, or at least have a basic understanding of where we come from. We speak the same language and understand the intended meanings of our colloquialisms. We do not necessarily understand the complexities of learning how to communicate appropriately and with the intended effect with those from regions and backgrounds far different from our own. Though intentions are generally good, simply not knowing or fully comprehending what makes another person think the way they do can have unforeseen and often negative consequences. These seemingly small personal, intercultural relations emphasize the need for cultural understanding and are a microcosm of world politics. Cultural differences between, say, the United States and Iran make it difficult for the two states to communicate, without even bringing the nuclear proliferation and form of government issues into play. Diplomacy is much more effective when all parties involved understand at least basically what the others are looking to achieve and why they are hoping to achieve it. People as a whole are more receptive and willing to cooperate if one has knowledge of their culture and background. It allows people, whether they are heads of state or common citizens, to connect personally and work together more efficiently.
Cooperation between people of vastly different cultures working together towards a common goal is, in my opinion, the overarching goal of world politics. The need for such cooperation has scarcely, if ever, been more evident in foreign policy and the rise of global concerns; from the broad topic of nuclear proliferation to more narrow topics, such as humanitarian aid for Georgian refugees. The betterment of mankind is an ideal that men from all backgrounds can strive towards, the complication coming from the means to that very broad end. Efficient and personable intercultural communications is the only way to facilitate positive change in the world.