1956 High School Exchange Students in USA Debate on Prejudice (2): Philippines, Japan, UK, Indonesia

Summary

In this insightful discussion, participants explore the evolution of social attitudes towards women and accents in Japan and England. They note significant advancements, such as women's suffrage and increased opportunities, particularly in Japan. Judith highlights the diminishing prejudice against the Cockney accent in England, reflecting a broader acceptance of regional diversity in language, especially post-war. The conversation underscores the importance of examining individuals before passing judgment to combat prejudice. The session concludes with a preview of future discussions featuring African delegates, continuing the exploration of societal biases.

Takeaways

• 😀 Women in Japan now have equal voting rights and opportunities, showcasing societal progress.
• 😀 Prejudice against the Cockney accent in England has diminished, especially since World War II.
• 😀 Accents from diverse regions, such as Northcountry and Welsh, are now celebrated in political contexts.
• 😀 The perception of aristocratic accents has shifted, leading to a humorous view of them in modern society.
• 😀 Judith reflects on her own accent, indicating the lingering influence of educational background on speech.
• 😀 Individuals are encouraged to reflect on themselves before making judgments about others.
• 😀 The conversation suggests that combating prejudice starts with personal introspection and fairness.
• 😀 The participants express a commitment to continue discussing prejudice in future sessions.
• 😀 The inclusion of voices from Africa in upcoming discussions highlights the global nature of prejudice.
• 😀 Overall, the dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting diverse identities.

Q & A

What social changes regarding women's rights are discussed in relation to Japan?

The discussion highlights that women in Japan can now vote and have equal opportunities in various aspects of life, indicating significant social progress.

How has the perception of accents in England changed since the war?

Post-war, the stigma against accents, particularly the Cockney accent, has diminished. Diverse accents are now recognized and respected in places like Parliament, reflecting a more inclusive attitude.

What is Judith's perspective on her previous prejudice against the Cockney accent?

Judith acknowledges her past prejudice but notes that it is no longer a serious issue in England, especially given the respect for individuals with various regional accents.

What does the speaker suggest about judgments based on accents?

The speaker suggests that judgments should be avoided until individuals are carefully examined. If judgments must be made, they should be fair and just.

How are accents perceived differently in modern England compared to the past?

Modern England sees a shift where diverse accents, including Cockney and others, are celebrated rather than despised, contrasting with past attitudes that favored aristocratic accents.

What concern does the speaker express about returning to England after time spent abroad?

The speaker expresses anxiety about potential judgments from their schoolmistress regarding their accent upon returning to England after three months abroad.

What will be the focus of the next discussion in the series?

The next discussion will continue the theme of prejudice and feature delegates from Africa, including one white and three colored delegates from South Africa, Gold Coast, Ethiopia, and Nigeria.

What conclusion is drawn about prejudice at the end of the discussion?

The conclusion emphasizes the importance of careful examination of individuals before forming judgments, reinforcing the idea of fairness in assessing people.

What examples of accents are mentioned as being present in the House of Parliament?

Accents from the Northcountry, Welsh, and Cockney are mentioned as examples of the diversity of accents heard in the House of Parliament today.

How has the societal attitude towards the aristocratic accent changed?

The aristocratic accent is now often viewed humorously, and there is a shift in respect towards those with non-aristocratic accents, reflecting changing social values.