The Evolution of Cultural Competence

Rachel Martin, a clinical psychologist and college professor, challenges the "Knowledge" pillar of intercultural communication that we have learned in previous readings. While gaining knowledge is a tool for competence, Dr. Martin warns that knowledge without mindfulness and humility can be counterproductive. Dr. Martin explores the history and limitations of traditional "cultural competence" and proposes a shift toward more dynamic models of understanding. She argues that treating cultural competence as a checklist of facts can actually lead to stereotyping. Think about your experiences. How might practicing cultural humility help you navigate the unconscious incompetence stage mentioned in our previous reading without causing harm to others?