STRANGER meaning and definition

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The Meaning of "Stranger": Exploring the Concept

In everyday life, we often encounter people who are not familiar to us. These individuals can be acquaintances, colleagues, or simply someone we meet in passing. When we refer to such people as "strangers," what do we really mean? In this article, we'll delve into the concept of a stranger and explore its significance in our lives.

Defining a Stranger

In common parlance, a stranger is typically defined as an individual who is not known or familiar to us. This can encompass someone we've never met before, such as a new neighbor or coworker, or even someone we encounter briefly, like a cashier at a store. In essence, a stranger is anyone with whom we have no established relationship or connection.

The Concept of Strangerliness

Philosophers and sociologists have long explored the concept of strangerliness, which refers to the idea that our interactions with strangers are fundamentally different from those with people we know well. This distinction can be attributed to the fact that we often approach encounters with strangers with a certain degree of caution or skepticism, as we don't possess pre-existing knowledge about them.

Strangers in Everyday Life

In our daily lives, we encounter strangers in various settings, such as:

Public Spaces: When we're out and about in public spaces like parks, cafes, or shopping malls, we often interact with strangers who may be sitting next to us, standing nearby, or simply passing by.
Workplaces: In the office or workplace, we may encounter colleagues from other departments or new hires, whom we don't know personally.
Travel: When traveling, we may meet fellow travelers, locals, or service staff at hotels, restaurants, or transportation hubs.

The Significance of Strangerliness

Encounters with strangers can have profound effects on our lives. Here are a few examples:

Cultural Exchange: Strangers from diverse backgrounds can enrich our understanding of the world and broaden our perspectives.
Personal Growth: Interacting with strangers can help us develop empathy, build confidence, and learn new skills.
Community Building: Stranger interactions can lay the groundwork for future connections and relationships.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concept of a stranger refers to an individual with whom we have no established relationship or connection. Encounters with strangers can be enriching experiences that promote personal growth, cultural exchange, and community building. By embracing these encounters, we can foster greater understanding and tolerance in our increasingly interconnected world.

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