Genuine multiculturalism : the tragedy and comedy of diversity / Cecil Foster.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Foster, Cecil, author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Multiculturalism--Canada.

Multiculturalism.

Physical Description:

1 online resource (513 p.)

Place of Publication:

Montreal : McGill-Queen's University Press, [2014]

Summary:

While many modern societies are noted for their diversity, the resulting challenge is to determine how citizens from different backgrounds and cultures can see themselves and each other as equals, and be treated equally. In Genuine Multiculturalism, Cecil Foster shows that a society's failure to bridge these differences is the tragedy of modern living and that pretending it is possible to mechanically develop fraternity and solidarity among diverse groups is akin to seeking out comedy. Arguing that genuine multiculturalism is the search for social justice by individuals who have been trapped by ascribed identities or newcomers who have been shut out of perceived ethnic homelands, Foster details how this process, in essence, is the story of the Americas. Reconceptionalizing the terms of multiculturalism, he offers an intervention into Canada's claim that its definition and practice are based on recognizing equality of citizenship. Identifying genuine multiculturalism as an ongoing work in progress, rather than a tightly defined policy position, Foster challenges readers to imagine a greater and more harmonious ideal. A necessary theoretical reconsideration of diversity within society, Genuine Multiculturalism refocuses the debate about ideals and practices in modern societies.

Contents:

part one. Natural differences and social equality

part two. Practices against social diversity

part three. Accepting diversity, promoting social equality.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Description based on online resource; title from PDF title page (ebrary, viewed March 27, 2014).

ISBN:

9780773589445

0773589449

9780773589438

0773589430

OCLC:

876860930