Multiculturalism core themes Flashcards
1
Q
Why do multiculturalists argue people should have pride in their cultural identity?
A
- It gives people a sense of social and historical rootedness
- A weak sense of cultural identity leaves you isolated and confused
2
Q
What is the multiculturalist view of human nature?
A
- They have a communitarian view of human nature, where people cannot be understood ‘outside’ of society
- People’s identities and values are constituted through the community
3
Q
Why do identity politics oppose liberal universalism?
A
- Liberal society values are in line with its dominant groups
- This means minority groups are oppressed, meaning subordinate groups are either considered inferior or forced to identify with those values
4
Q
What positive view does identity politics have of culture?
A
- Sees culture as liberation from liberal universalism
- Embracingan identity is a political act
5
Q
Why do multiculturalists believe in ‘politics of recognition’?
A
- They think that social marginalisation is not just a social, legal or political phenomenon but also cultural, as peoples views of themselves and others are structured around it
- Cultural based marginalisation has taken place and needs to be tackled
6
Q
What is ‘politics of recognition’?
A
- Positive endorsement of cultural difference, allowing marginalised groups to assert themselves by reclaiming a sense of cultural identity
7
Q
Why do multiculturalists argue that indigenous people are entitled to particular rights?
A
- They have been subordinated by the process of colonisation and did not choose to give up their cultures or consent to a new state
- They tend to be geographically concentrated, making devolution of political authority practicable
8
Q
Why are minority rights endorsed under multiculturalism?
A
- They act as a guarantee to personal autonomy and individual freedom, as well as helping to counter oppression
- They may also work as compensation for unfair disadvantages (e.g affirmative action)
9
Q
Why have minority rights been criticised?
A
- They could block integration into ;anger society
- Positive discrimination may be unfair and demeaning
- Protection of religion may infringe on freedom of speech
- Tensions between individual and minority rights, as people do not choose their culture
10
Q
Why do multiculturalists believe diversity is healthy for society?
A
- Promotes cross cultural tolerance and understanding
- It promotes social cohesion as people are willing to participate due to having a secure identity rooted in their culture
11
Q
What do multiculturalists argue leads to extremism?
A
- Denial of cultural recognition results in feelings of isolation and powerlessness, which then leads to extremism and hate
