Canadian Ethnic Studies: Traditional Preoccupations and New Directions

Abstract

After summarizing the comprehensive scope of Canadian ethnic studies, the changing ethnic composition of Canadian society, and developments in Canadian ethnic studies during the past decade, this paper evaluates the present state of academic theory and research on Canadian ethnic minorities and proposes new directions for research. Eight main topical areas are discussed: (1) ethnic identity per se; (2) ethnic group survival; (3) ethnic identity change; (4) the history of specific ethnic groups; (5) demographic analysis of immigration; (6) the place of ethnic minorities in Canadian society; (7) ethnic relations; (8) multicultural policies and education. The paper suggests that Canadian ethnic studies have been more descriptive than interpretative, analytical, or explanatory. Divergent theoretical approaches must be grounded in objective field research; conversely, data gathering should be oriented toward developing theoretical generalizations. The interdisciplinary nature of ethnic studies implies that scholars should understand and employ divergent theoretical and methodological approaches.