What is multiculturalism?

Multiculturalism (sometimes also called multiculturalism) is the coexistence of a great variety of cultures in the same geographical, physical and social space. It is a concept widely used in the social sciences. It is also a social movement that seeks to accept the differences between different cultures that inhabit the same space, in order to live in a framework of tolerance and equality. Multiculturalism implies not only the presence in the same society of groups with different cultural codes, but also the presence of different ethnic groups, languages ​​and religions coexisting in the same space. Multiculturalism is a frequent condition of every culture and seeks to respect each individual’s philosophy of life .

In a political context, multiculturalism refers to how societies implement their official policies and manage diversity.

Characteristics of multiculturalism

• Promote development and peaceful coexistence between coexisting cultures.
• Seek and encourage the exchange of ideas between cultures.
• Achieve an understanding between the different groups present in a geographical space, as well as find the balance in their differences for integration without social conflict.

There are two main theories regarding how multiculturalism works: the melting pot theory and the salad bowl theory .

Multiculturalism can be carried out on a large scale or within the communities of a nation. It can also occur naturally as a result of migratory processes, or artificially when different cultures are combined by decree, as in the case of the different British and French Canadian provinces.

There are differing opinions on how multiculturalism should be handled, and it is a contentious issue. Proponents of multiculturalism think that at least some values ​​of traditional cultures should be preserved; On the contrary, those who oppose it believe that multiculturalism is a threat by influencing the predominant culture, seeking to lose national identity. This has, of course, become a huge sociopolitical problem.

The melting pot theory

Also known as the melting pot theory , it is based on the idea that large groups of immigrants will mix and “melt” with the mainstream society by developing within the mainstream society, leaving behind at least part of their native culture. The classic example of this definition is the United States.

This theory is often illustrated by the metaphor of smelting pots, in which the elements of iron and carbon are melted together to create a single stronger metal: steel. The French-American immigrant J. Hector St. John de Crevecoeur described it this way in the year 1782: “Individuals of all nations merge into a new race of men, whose labors and successors will one day cause great changes in the world . “

This model has been strongly criticized for ending diversity, undermining original traditions and for being imposed through government policies. For example, in 1934 the United States Indian Reorganization Act forced the assimilation of 350,000 Indians into American society, regardless of their diversity, heritage, culture, and lifestyle.

The Salad Bowl Theory

This is a theory with more liberties: it speaks of a coexisting society, maintaining at least some of its unique characteristics that allow original cultures to persist over time. The metaphor is that several ingredients with mixed flavors can be combined on the same plate, thus making a salad. In the salad bowl theory, different cultures come together and mix, but instead of merging into a single homogeneous society, they coexist while maintaining their distinctive flavors, languages, and characteristics.

The salad bowl theory states that it is not necessary for people to give up their cultural heritage in order to be considered members of the dominant society. For example, African Americans or people of African descent do not need to stop practicing the African festivals of Kwanzaa instead of Christmas to be considered “American.”

On the negative side, the cultural differences fostered by the salad bowl model can divide a society and lead to prejudice and discrimination.

Studies by American political scientist Robert Putnam from 2007 indicate that individuals living in multicultural salad bowl societies are less likely to vote or volunteer for community projects in their own environments.

The importance of diversity

• A truly diverse society is one that recognizes and values ​​the cultural differences in its people.
• Defenders of cultural diversity argue that multiculturalism strengthens society and may, in fact, be vital to its long-term survival.
• Today, in many countries, workplaces, and schools, there are different cultural, religious, and ethnic groups. By recognizing and learning about these diverse groups, communities build trust, respect, and understanding of all cultures.

Communities and organizations in all settings benefit from the different backgrounds, skills, experiences, and new ways of thinking that come with cultural diversity.

The universal declaration on cultural diversity as a heritage of humanity states that it is a source of exchange, innovation and creativity. In this sense, it constitutes the common heritage of humanity and must be recognized and consolidated for the benefit of present and future generations.

»Cultural diversity is as necessary for the human race as biological diversity is for living organisms.” UNESCO, 2001.

Sources

• St. John de Crevecoeur, J. Hector (1782). Letters from an American Farmer . The Avalon project. Yale University.   
• De La Torre, Miguel A. The problem with the melting pot . EthicsDaily.com (2009).  
• Hauptman, Laurence M. Getting Out of Stock: Memoirs . University of California Press. 
• Jonas, Michael. The downside of diversity . The Boston Globe (August, 2007).
• UNESCO Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity . UNESCO, 2001.