Multiculturalism
Plural societies are those in which a number of different cultural or ethnic groups reside together within a shared political and social framework.
Acculturation is the dual process of cultural and psychological change that takes place
as a result of contact between two or more cultural groups and their individual members.
A Canadian psychologist (John Berry) identified four paths to acculturation:
There is a big cultural debate regarding assimilation and multiculturalism. Two forms of assimilation are recognised. The first, total, involves the obliteration of the non-dominant culture, the second, 'melting pot' refers to a less extreme version where a new form of the dominant culture emerges.
'Laissez-faire' is a term used to describe multiculturalism that takes place without planning (e.g. the Chinatowns' that exist in most cities).
Acculturation is the dual process of cultural and psychological change that takes place
as a result of contact between two or more cultural groups and their individual members.
A Canadian psychologist (John Berry) identified four paths to acculturation:
- Assimilation - when individuals give up home culture and embrace the dominant culture
- Integration - maintaining the home culture but also embracing the dominant culture
- Separation - maintaining home culture and being isolated from the dominant culture
- Marginalization - giving up the home culture and failing to relate properly to the dominant culture
There is a big cultural debate regarding assimilation and multiculturalism. Two forms of assimilation are recognised. The first, total, involves the obliteration of the non-dominant culture, the second, 'melting pot' refers to a less extreme version where a new form of the dominant culture emerges.
'Laissez-faire' is a term used to describe multiculturalism that takes place without planning (e.g. the Chinatowns' that exist in most cities).
