I asked a bot what lay ahead for Indians in SA …
THE morning sun drenches Durban with warmth on Freedom Day as I begin working on this column. Twenty-nine years after the advent of democracy, I ask somebody who knows everything: “What is the future of Indians in South Africa?”
Hardly taking time to ponder, this is the immediate response I got: “Indian South Africans are a diverse and vibrant community with a rich culture and history.
“Despite facing discrimination and challenges in the past, Indian South Africans have made significant contributions to the country’s economy, politics and culture.
“Many have achieved success in business, academia and the arts and continue to play a key role in South Africa’s development.
“However, like many minority communities, Indian South Africans continue to face some challenges, including issues related to education, employment and representation in government and media. Some also face discrimination and prejudice based on their race or ethnicity.
“Despite these challenges, many Indian South Africans remain optimistic about the future and are actively working to build a better and more inclusive society.
“Through grass-roots activism, community organisations and political engagement, Indian South Africans are making their voices heard and advocating for greater equality.
“In conclusion, while the future is uncertain, Indian South Africans are an integral part of the country’s diverse and vibrant community and will continue to play an important role in shaping its future.”
I was not interviewing some astute political or social commentator. In fact, the above response to my first question was not from a human.
I had decided to play around with Chatbot, a computer programme that simulates and processes human conversation (either written or spoken), allowing humans to interact with digital devices as if they were communicating with a real person. More about Chatbot later.
My next question put to Chatbot: “How can Indians in South Africa ensure they are regarded as an integral part of the South African population?”
And Chatbot instantaneously responded: “Integration and inclusion are key factors in ensuring that Indian South Africans are regarded as part of the larger South African population. Here are some steps that Indian South Africans can take to foster greater integration and inclusion:
“Engage with the broader community: Participate in community events, volunteer opportunities, and other activities that allow you to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
“This can help to break down barriers and promote understanding and respect.
“Advocate for representation: Work to ensure that Indian South Africans are represented in government, media, and other key institutions. This can help to ensure that the community’s voice is heard and that its interests are considered.
“Promote education: Support education initiatives that promote multiculturalism and diversity. By educating young people about the contributions and culture of Indian South Africans, we can build a more inclusive and tolerant society.
“Celebrate diversity: Celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions of South Africa, including those of Indian South Africans. By embracing our differences and promoting understanding, we can build a stronger and more cohesive society.
“Speak out against discrimination: If you encounter discrimination or prejudice based on your race or ethnicity, speak out against it. By raising awareness and advocating for change, we can work to eliminate discrimination and promote greater inclusion and equality.”
I took a liking to Chatbot’s way of thinking and decided to ask a sensitive question. “If a minority group is disregarded by the government, should its members decide to emigrate?”
“The decision to emigrate is a personal one and depends on a variety of factors.
“While discrimination and lack of government support can certainly be a cause for concern, there are many other factors that individuals and families must consider before deciding to emigrate,” responded Chatbot.
“For example, emigrating to a new country can be expensive and challenging and may require significant adjustments to lifestyle and culture. It can also be difficult to leave behind friends, family, and familiar surroundings.
“Moreover, emigrating does not necessarily guarantee that one will be free from discrimination or prejudice. Racism and discrimination exist in many parts of the world, and individuals and families may face new challenges in their new home country.
“That said, emigrating can also provide opportunities for growth, education, and better economic prospects. It can allow individuals and families to escape oppression or persecution and to build new lives in more welcoming and supportive environments.
“Ultimately, the decision to emigrate should be based on a careful consideration of one's individual circumstances, needs and priorities.”
Since Chatbot had a view on anything and everything, I then popped another delicate question: “Should Indians retain their culture in South Africa or should they embrace Africanism?”
Chatbot shot back: “Many Indian South Africans have found ways to both retain their cultural identity and embrace African culture and traditions. For example, Indian South Africans may participate in traditional Indian festivals and ceremonies while also engaging in African cultural events and activities.
“At the same time, embracing Africanism does not necessarily require giving up one’s cultural identity. Rather, it can involve a process of learning, understanding and appreciating the culture and traditions of the country in which one lives while still retaining and celebrating one’s own culture and heritage.”
What did Chatbot think of POST newspaper, I asked: “Should a minority group such as Indians in South Africa have their own newspaper?”
Chatbot took a middle-of-the-road view. “Having a dedicated newspaper for a minority group such as Indians in South Africa can be a way to promote community awareness, share news and stories that may be of particular interest to the community, and provide a platform for community members to express their views and opinions.
“However, it is also important to ensure that such a newspaper does not contribute to further segregation or division within society.
“The newspaper should aim to promote diversity and inclusion and provide coverage of news and events that are relevant to all members of society, not just the minority group.
“Furthermore, a dedicated newspaper for a minority group should not be seen as a replacement for mainstream media, which has a responsibility to provide fair and unbiased coverage of all communities and issues.”
My final question to Chatbot: “Should languages of a minority group be preserved and spoken in a democracy?”
And Chatbot responded: “Yes, in a democracy, it is important to preserve the languages of minority groups as part of a broader effort to promote cultural diversity, respect for human rights, and social inclusion.
“Language is an integral part of cultural identity and plays a key role in shaping individual and collective experiences, values and beliefs.
“Therefore, it is important to preserve and promote minority languages as part of a broader effort to maintain cultural diversity and support the rights of minority communities.”
Now for more about Chatbot. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the foundation for Chatbot. Chatbots utilise a database of information to recognise patterns in conversation.
This allows them to respond realistically and engage users as humans do.
Using specific rules and prior interactions, Chatbots can provide insightful replies to any query thrown at them, making their responses both accurate and creative.
Happy Chatbotting!
Devan is a media consultant and social commentator.