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Although it is true that people should understand more about the importance of being citizens of the world, hardly can I agree that the role as world citizens necessarily transcend the role as national citizens. However, I believe as responsible world citizens, people should indeed broaden their horizon and make sensible decisions that benefit their own country in the long run. Above all, the role of a responsible world citizen does not necessarily conflict with that of a national citizen. In fact, as the global economy depends more and more on international trade and investment, the well-being of any country might exert significant influence on other economies. If the American economy, the world’s driving engine, slows down, the world economy as a whole will be dragged into recession. Therefore, a citizen who contributes to the economic success of his or her own country is at the same time implementing the responsibility of a world citizen. Much in the same way, if people in every country commit themselves to solving national issues such as human rights and environmental protection, the world as a whole will benefit. However, a qualified world citizen must also assume additional responsibilities and make wise decisions when national interests and international interests seem to conflict. Take the international efforts to fight against terrorism for example. Some nations are reluctant to be involved in this global campaign in fear of brutal retaliation. Nevertheless, a world citizen should possess a broad vision to realize that no country can enjoy peace solitarily when terrorism is menacing innocent citizens. The policy of appeasement did not work on Fascists during the Second World War. Nor will it work on extreme terrorists. Only through uniform effort of the international society can we eradicate terrorism. Under this circumstance, the role of a responsible world citizen actually benefits national interests in the long run. Moreover, a world citizen has to understand more about other cultures in this world to achieve mutual understandings and avoid unnecessary conflicts. The idea of an increasingly integrated world suggests a pluralistic ethos whereby people of diverse histories and backgrounds maintain their cultural identities while at the same time coexist with other cultural representatives in a spirit of tolerance and mutual respect. Although people are naturally proud of their own national cultures, a narrow consciousness may retard the development of a harmonious international society. In conclusion, although people need to put increasing emphasis on their role as world citizens, they should not abandon their national interests. The prosperity of an individual nation contributes the overall development of the world. Meanwhile, people have to enlarge their perspectives so that they can make responsible decisions as a world citizen.
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发表于 2005-8-12 15:24:00
