Co-Cultures

In the course, we have learned that besides one’s cultures, there exists co-cultures, in which a group of people has common traits or beliefs. In that, I identify as a Christian, athlete, and heterosexual. People who have one belief or trait tend to create an ingroup and exclude others to belong to an outgroup.

As a Christian, my beliefs are rooted in the Christian doctrine, which  I have learned since childhood. I am raised in a Christian home, which is the primary learning environment. These teaching affect my intercommunication in two dimensions. Firstly, I have faith in God as the sole creator and provider. Therefore, I regard Him higher throughout my conversations. Secondly, It is challenging to convince non-Christians of the rationale for some of my actions, especially when they are not willing to understand the concept of faith. In that case, Christians are my ingroup, while non-Christians are an outgroup.

Similarly, due to the teaching I have had concerning sexuality, I appreciate my gender and the Christain approach to sexuality. That way, it is seldom accepting the idea of same-sex marriages. While I do not have anything against people who hold different schools of thoughts or beliefs, it is often tricky talking about sexuality with them for two reasons. First, I believe that they are sinners, and secondly, I have stereotypes that have oversimplified them as ignorant. 

Concerning athletics, it is inarguable that sportspeople have a form of unity that bides them. I am confident and free with other athletes. We understand the language of sports and encourage one another.

I think two people may be in one co-culture, but different in others. That way, ingroups and outgroups threaten effective communication and its utility, such as in teams. Therefore, people may humble themselves to learn about one another and avoid stereotyping to avoid unhealthy cultural grouping.