Lessons in continuation and transformation: The United States and South Africa

Abstract

Addres sing issues concerning South Africa is a daunting experience. For a people who have been through so much , and for issues so complex, I cannot promise to off er answers. In fact, answers imply more pem1anence than prevails in the social world we examine. If there is an answer, it is the process of dialogue that gives us ideas to put into practice and, later, to evaluate that practice. Dialogue provides not a static answer but a solution-generating process.

My perspective is from a distance. I do not know South Africa close up. I can only offer a perspective from a distance . What you can see from that distance is different from what you can see close up. It is not more or less accurate, just different. Also, what you can see close up is not the same as what you can see from a distance. Perhaps the combination of these perspectives enhances the dialogue . It is with this hope that I offer my perspective. If it is useful to you, please use it. If not, at least I have learned from the effort.