The purpose of this exercise is to experience a cultural shock in a safe environment while being able to recognize how we understand reality through our own “lenses”, meaning the combination of stereotypes, values and other culturally determined assumptions.
Used with young people, the method is a really good way to show them how easy it is to jump to conclusion and at the same time how vulnerable to manipulation we all are when we are emotionally aroused.
A more detached attitude and an objective approach is key then to shield ourselves from manipulation and misunderstanding especially in a highly diverse and complex world such as the one we live in.