Belonging is defined as the state of being accepted into a group or community. Belonging can take many forms such as social, cultural, religious, national, professional, racial, political or sexual identity. Belonging plays an important role in shaping ethical decision-making, relational choices and personal meaning-making. In this article, I will explore how these three concepts are influenced by belonging.
Ethical Decision Making
Belonging shapes ethical decision making. This is because individuals who belong to a certain group tend to have similar values, beliefs and expectations.
People from different religions may have different perspectives on what constitutes right and wrong behaviour. They may also have different moral codes that guide their actions. When faced with an ethical dilemma, individuals may be more likely to make decisions based on the norms and expectations of their group rather than on their own individual conscience.
Belonging can influence the level of empathy one has for others.
Those who share a common background or experience with another person may feel more connected to them and therefore may be more inclined to consider their needs when making decisions.
Relational Choices
Belonging influences relational choices. This means that individuals tend to seek out relationships with people who share similar identities, interests, and experiences. People often choose friends, romantic partners, and work colleagues who they perceive to be like themselves. This creates a sense of familiarity and comfort that helps build stronger connections between individuals.
It can also lead to exclusion of those who do not fit into the same category as the majority. This can create divisions within communities and limit opportunities for growth and learning. Moreover, belonging can impact the quality of relationships. Individuals who have strong ties to a particular group may prioritize the needs of that group over their personal relationships, leading to conflicts in intimacy and communication.
Personal Meaning-Making
Belonging plays a significant role in personal meaning-making. Belonging provides individuals with a sense of identity, purpose, and direction. It can help individuals define who they are and how they relate to the world around them.
Someone who is part of a religious community may find meaning in following its teachings and beliefs. They may use this identity to shape their daily actions and interactions with others. Similarly, an individual's national identity can inform their political views and social activism. Belonging can provide stability and support during difficult times. At the same time, it can also limit one's ability to explore new ideas or perspectives beyond what is accepted by the group.
Belonging has a profound influence on ethical decision making, relational choices, and personal meaning-making. Understanding these effects is crucial for creating inclusive and just societies where everyone feels valued and respected regardless of their background. By recognizing the importance of belonging, we can work towards building more diverse and equitable communities that celebrate our differences while still finding common ground.
How does belonging shape ethical decision-making, relational choices, and personal meaning-making?
Belonging shapes ethical decision-making by providing individuals with a sense of community responsibility and a shared set of values that guide their actions towards others. It can also influence their perceptions of what constitutes right and wrong behavior within a group, as well as their willingness to take action when they perceive an injustice or violation of those values.