On differences between cultures

Regarding Paul R. Milton's response to my opinion article (The Jakarta Post, Sept. 4, 2001) titled Howard fails to consult Indonesia on refugee crisis. Differences between cultures are a little bit like an iceberg. The 10 percent we see above the water are usually those things we have in common. Below the water are significant and fundamental differences in values, ethics and perceptions. Paul R. Milton makes the assumption that Indonesians and Westerners think alike. Most people can only think within the boundaries of their own cultural paradigm. To look at something from diametrically opposing cultural perspectives and see rationality and virtue in both positions takes training and experience. I checked my assumptions against the opinions of a number of trusted Indonesian friends and associates. Their response was that my analysis was correct and insightful. However, that still doesn't address the situation.

Like Paul R. Milton I am concerned about long term solutions. Again, as argued in my article, these are to be found in dialogue, the building of trust and mutual respect of very different proprieties, nurtured within culturally appropriate terms of engagement. The lightening fast "in and out" Australian ministerial visit, or what senior Indonesian figures refer to as "megaphone diplomacy" is so far off the mark that it again leads me to suggest that the Australian government still does not appreciate the differences between us. This is a process that will take years, not hours. Indonesia appreciates this. Does the Howard government? Who, perhaps understandably, is thinking only as far as the November general election and is somewhat pleased with the opinion polls that show Mr. Howard's unilateral approach has been very popular with great sections of the Australian electorate.

ROB GOODFELLOW

Wollongong, New South Wales