From Jordan: A View on Western Culture

(Many Americans are puzzled by the rejection of our culture by those in the Arab League countries. The Habiba presents the views from a young woman in Amman, Jordan—Sonia Shaheen—who attempts to shed light on the attitude. This piece was translated into English by Sabi Atteyih, Madison, Wisconsin. It is, therefore, our hope that between translation and editing that we have maintained the integrity of the writer.)

By Sonia Shaheen

The youth of Jordan are divided in how they see Americans and life in America. There is so much talk about going to a Western nation to become prosperous, yet our perceptions are varied on whether that is right or wrong.

Many Jordanians believe that adopting the culture and values of America is the only way out of poverty and ignorance. They embrace the possibility with vigor and court it when they can. At the same time, others reject Western culture in an effort to protect all the Arab nations' history and values which are unique to the world. Another group promotes the values and cultural mores of the Arab society, but believes that they would surely benefit from the technology of the Western world.

As for myself, I should be classified with the last group. I believe it is not wrong to learn from the Western culture where knowledge and medical breakthroughs are for all humanity. What is wrong would be adopting the values and behavior like drinking, illegal drugs and lack of commitment to family.

For those who arrive in America, there is a gigantic adjustment to be made. The first stage is shock—cultural, educational and social. Afterward, a sense of awe and fascination sets in along with questions like: Should I remain the way I was or should I change? How much will I have to change to fit in?

There is so much discrimination and many ways to break through that discrimination. For instance, it doesn't hurt to be an Arab driving an American car.

The media has a very important role in reflecting the truth, and all around the world it seems to be failing. I have met so many from Western nations who believe the media myths about our lands. One Western visitor who came to Jordan in 1989 was stunned to find out there are no barbarians on camels, no old tents, no terrorism or intimidation as he expected. This is a common misconception of my country, Jordan, and many Arab countries.