Rudyard Kipling: 'I have struck a city - a real city - and they call it Chicago... I urgently desire never to see it again. It is inhabited by savages.'

I have struck a city - a real city - and they call it Chicago... I urgently desire never to see it again. It is inhabited by savages.

Rudyard Kipling's quote, "I have struck a city - a real city - and they call it Chicago... I urgently desire never to see it again. It is inhabited by savages," reflects his initial impression of Chicago, highlighting his disdain for the city's supposedly uncivilized nature. At first glance, this quote may seem like a simple observation or a personal preference. However, delving deeper into the underlying meaning and significance of Kipling's words opens up an opportunity to explore the human tendency to judge and categorize unfamiliar environments or cultural practices.Essentially, Kipling's quote conveys his strong negative reaction to Chicago, emphasizing the intensity of his desire to never witness its supposed savagery again. By describing the city as inhabited by "savages," Kipling suggests that the people of Chicago and their way of life differ so drastically from what he deems as civilized that he equates them to a primitive state. Such a stark judgment reveals Kipling's belief in a subjective notion of civilization, where anything departing from his familiar experiences is deemed savage.However, this quote also provides an excellent opportunity to explore the concept of cultural relativism. Cultural relativism emphasizes understanding cultures on their own terms, without imposing external judgments or stereotypes. It challenges the notion that one culture's values, practices, or way of life are inherently superior or inferior to another's. Applying this concept to Kipling's remark about Chicago prompts us to question the validity of his hasty judgment and examine it through a more open and empathetic lens.Chicago, as a vibrant and diverse city, offers a rich tapestry of people and perspectives, each contributing to its cultural fabric. While Kipling's quote may reflect his limited exposure or personal biases, it fails to capture the complexities and nuances that make Chicago truly remarkable. By succumbing to stereotypes and labeling the inhabitants as savages, Kipling prevents himself from truly understanding and appreciating the city's beauty and significance.In today's globalized world, it is crucial to challenge our preconceived notions and resist the temptation to hastily judge unfamiliar environments or cultures. By embracing cultural relativism, we foster empathy and understanding, enabling us to appreciate the richness and diversity of the world we inhabit. Chicago, like any city, is not defined solely by its buildings or people, but rather by the unique stories and experiences of its inhabitants. It is in the exploration and celebration of these individual narratives that we truly begin to grasp the essence of a city.In conclusion, Rudyard Kipling's quote about Chicago as a city inhabited by savages initially showcases his narrow perspective and predisposition to judge. However, examining this quote through the lens of cultural relativism prompts us to challenge our own biases and explore the value of embracing different cultures and experiences. By doing so, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities and foster a greater appreciation for the diversity and interconnectedness of our global community.