Social Interaction Problems in the Multicultural Environment: Discrimination, Tolerance and “Snowfl ake Generation”

Abstract

The article analyzes the risks of intercultural communication associated with the implementation of the principles of tolerance and positive discrimination. It is noted that significant changes have occurred in the sociocultural space — globalization, increased mobility, openness of public systems due to the democratization of developed countries — all this together affects the creation of multicultural society, including against the background of involving atypical groups and various minorities. The analysis of intolerance associated with manipulation and the «cancel culture» is carried out. Emphasized, that the ideas of equality and tolerance to other cultures and atypical individuals are designed to contribute to the harmonious development of personality and society, the smooth out of obvious and hidden social conflicts. However, excessive security can lead to social parasitivism, expressed in attitudes for dependent on the part of socially viable layers. The features of a new term for public consciousness «generation of snowflakes» are revealed, its author’s interpretation is presented — as a community of individuals characterized by a hypersensitive attitude to socially disapproved behavior associated with discrimination, and at the same time prone to intolerant behavior through bullying. It is concluded that it is advisable for overcoming various communicative barriers to develop intercultural competence as an integral personality characteristic that ensures intersubjective interaction and understanding. Empathy and the ability to find a common language with the interlocutor become an important resource that can prevent the risks of discrimination and intolence.