When I watched Green Book for the first time, I was shocked by how Viggo Mortensen transformed himself for the role. While I hadn’t seen many of his movies before, his portrayal of Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings still holds a special place in my memory.
The 2018 film, directed by Peter Farrelly, is a biographical comedy-drama based on the true story of a 1962 tour through the Deep South by African American pianist Don Shirley and Italian American bouncer Frank “Tony Lip” Vallelonga, who served as Shirley’s driver and bodyguard. Starring Viggo Mortensen and Mahershala Ali, the movie captures a journey that is both physical and deeply emotional.
Breaking Barriers Through Friendship
Tony and Don’s relationship starts with tension: Tony struggles to adapt to Don’s refined manners, while Don disapproves of Tony’s coarse habits. Over time, Tony grows to admire Don’s immense talent and becomes increasingly outraged by the racism and discrimination Don faces offstage.
Even if you haven’t seen the movie, its themes of cultural difference and mutual understanding are immediately clear. Yet, rather than focusing on a single cultural clash, the film prompts a deeper reflection: Why do we see others as fundamentally different from ourselves?
The Roots of Cultural Division
Viewing other cultures as “different” is natural—it stems from how we’re raised. Across history, societies have labeled outsiders as “barbarians,” a term that carried heavy judgment. While modern language has softened, the underlying mindset remains.
This perception begins in childhood. Most education systems emphasize national identity first, instilling a sense of “us” versus “them.” Rarely are we taught from an early age to see ourselves as citizens of the world, where differences are celebrated rather than judged.
Cultural diversity is a strength. Many of the world’s greatest inventions and ideas have emerged from the blending of different ways of thinking. Recognizing this is essential for building mutual respect.
The Role of Education and Neuroplasticity
The brain’s neuroplasticity—its ability to rewire and adapt—offers hope. With effort, we can shift our mindset, moving from seeing ourselves as fixed citizens of one nation to embracing a global identity. Like adopting a growth mindset in personal development, becoming a “citizen of the world” opens us to new perspectives and possibilities.
Education is the key. Just as Tony and Don grew through their journey together, we too must challenge our biases, many of which are deeply ingrained from birth. Cultural norms, family values, and societal expectations leave a profound imprint on young minds, shaping how we see the world.
Reshaping the Future
Thinking as a citizen of the world is essential for creating a better future. It requires us to learn, unlearn, and grow beyond the boundaries of our upbringing.
What steps can we take to foster a global mindset in ourselves and future generations? Let’s discuss!
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