Philosophers tell us that all human beings seek to make sense of their lives and their circumstances. The particular culture we are in offers us a menu of options with which to make sense of the various and disparate events in our lives. Culture therefore cannot be ignored for being ""unimportant,"" for, through it, the lives that we lead acquire a shape that gladdens us. In the heightened competition that characterises globalisation, knowing one's culture and keeping in touch with its most intimate values and aspirations can give the individual plenty of needed comfort. Without a sense of inner security that our culture, values and aspirations provides, it is easy to succumb in the heat of battle. —From the Introduction by Fernando N. Zialcita