Why are we disturbed with differences?

 

I've learned that in life, people are simply not comfortable with differences or changes.  If it be color differences, cultural differences, or even differences such as mental disabilities.. most people simply do not accept them.

For example:

You are in school,

And you hear that there is a new kid at your school.

But when you see the new kid, you realize they are from a different country

And they look completely different from you,

Or they have a complete accent because they are from a different part of your country.

Knowing that they are different from you,

You and your friends decide not to befriend the new kid.

  Fact:  I have been that new kid and been pushed aside because I was different.

If you are different, people tend to not accept those who are different from them... but no one really knows why.

Why do you think that people are uncomfortable with differences around them? 

In response to Sam's question....

Why do you believe that the people of poorer countries are often happier then their counterparts in wealthier societies?

Thinking about this question honestly makes me happy.  America is one of the more wealthy countries in the world, and because of the wealth we are often seen as snobbish- in a way, we are.  Though some people have a sense of work ethic and such, most people can't appreciate the things that we have in our lives.  We complain about the smallest things, and we often say we "need" things, when it is a simple want.  But I feel the poorer countries are actually better off than people in America.  They work for all they have, and they cherish every bit that they have in their life.  And most are even thankful for the smallest things that they have!  

I personally think that if you have nothing in life, and then you work your heart out to get something, you learn to cherish that along with everything else you earned.  Once you start getting wealthy and are able to get things easily, I feel that is when a person stops losing respect and value for their paraphernalia.

Why do you think that people value certain objects more than others in their lives?