The Noddings Center

Caring for Strangers and Distant Others

"...caring at a distance is hard and uncertain work" (Noddings, 2005b, p. 123).

 

Difficulties of Caring at a Distance

     When distance separates the carer from those that would be cared for, there is no absolute confirmation of the results of the attempts of care. “At a distance, we judge not even by appearances, but by reports of appearances. It is often so difficult to assess reality that we give up the task and simply take sides” (Noddings, 2005b, p. 111). There is a tendency to assume that those we would care for want what we want, and have the same values and morals; when in fact the common characteristic is the desire to be in a caring relationship. Students can research and study the cultural and social structures of a distance group with the goal of creating cultural empathy. Undertaking such research may lead to fewer misunderstandings and prejudice, but not until honest conversations occur can there be assurance that carer's intentions are appropriate.

 

Preparing to Care

     “It is imperative to keep the lines of communication open” (Noddings, 2005b, p. 119, italics original). In this center of care, teachers and students can discuss interpersonal relationships and the impact of exclusivity upon groups or organizations. Topics include discussion on the impact of other groups by a dominant group, degree in which relationships between groups mutually beneficial, and types and purposes of initiation or entrance requirements. “At a more personal level, students can be encouraged to live moderately…. [S]tudents need to learn how to curb their appetites and to consider the possible effects of their own wealth on the rest of the world” (p. 124).