As a society, the relations between individuals have become more complex than before, and as such any opinion on the matter is worth considering. One of the most recognizable social commentators of modern Great Britain who is also a fighter for progressive norms has long stated the relevance and admissibility of male and female friendships that have no sexual context in the contemporary world.
Breaking Down Traditional Barriers
In the past, people used to consider individual friendships in one of two ways – they stem from romantic interests or are just some sort of an anomaly. Such friendships imply that there is something wrong with such friendships, and they always end up causing conflict or judgment from society. But there appears to be a marked opposition to such friendships, and it is here that Ali Raza-Sheikh offers a spirited defense of such friendships arguing that they should not be looked at as negatives but rather positively embraced.
Raza further states that the modern world is slowly and gradually coming to appreciate nonsexual affection between individuals persons. In his opinion, these friendships involve the support, call for diversity, and emotional enrichment of the persons involved. Instead, he claims that any attempts to ignore, disapprove, or even doubt the possibility of such relationships are counterproductive and counter-reformative to society.
Acknowledging and Addressing Concerns
Raza is not unmindful of the risks that are associated with individual friendships. He also admits that it may be sometimes difficult to balance these relationships because, for instance, of societal norms or self-consciousness. However, he supposes that constructive communication and their willingness to respect each other can help to eliminate these challenges.
Describing the essence of the inspirational community in his writings and speeches, Raza encourages to be free and untroubled in forming and maintaining such friendships. He posits for a mutation of a social model of human relations, pertinent to the diffusion of the analysis of persons.
Modern Friendships in Practice
In keeping with current reality, it can be seen that Raza’s position is in tune with the changing dynamics of companionate relationships in the twenty-first century. Peer relationships as we now know them due to social media are no longer restricted in trying to adhere to conventional norms of friendship. Hence, individuals are being presented in their myriad of professional, social, and online settings where relationships can be developed.
Raza also cites examples of how individuals friendship can work out successfully, and do not necessarily mean sexual relationships. These friendships were revealed as friendly, productive, and supportive daily working relationships as well as personal friendships, which only confirm the possibility of nonsexual interactions between individuals. These are a clear pointer to the fact that such relations can work well especially when there is mutual trust respect and parity of esteem.
The Path Forward
The outspokenness of Ali Raza in defending individual friendships gives a viable argument for changing the set social perceptions about such relationships. In doing so he is facilitating a change in the culture that does not raise an eyebrow at the idea of close friendship between individuals.
The traditional style of relationship may not suit the society anymore and thus accepting different types of relationships and making it the new social norm will go a long way in creating a better society. Thus, Raza narrates us with primary facts that simply prove that friendship is not defined by gender and the gains of such relations are inappreciable to anyone.
Bottom Line
The show’s message of accepting individuals’ friendship eliminates the stereotyped norms that existed in the past and reduces them to accept modern norms. Through his passion for this show, he ensures that everyone embraces nonsexual relationships and learn to appreciate people who have such relationships as well.
