Cries and whispers about multiculturalism: Some theoretical and methodological considerations

Abstract

In this paper, I shall present a broad outline of some underlying theoretical and methodological issues that may contribute to a better understanding of the sources of intercultural conflict and ways to avoid or mitigate them. The core of the argument will be that noble intentions do not suffice, but should be complemented with a rigorous self-critique and a search for unintended negative side-effects. Concrete cases discussed are: affirmative action and multiculturalism in higher education, and some Afrocentrists' claims about the black origins of Greek civilization. In each of these cases, it will be argued, the noble intentions associated with the issue may blind us to the historic and methodological twists that the claims are involved in. It is argued that the aims of multiculturalism can be attained only through a rational inquiry of diverse culture: if we are to progress in our study of cultural differences, a fundamental prerequisite is that we have reliable and fair descriptions of those cultures. Some of the irrational tendencies that may be observed in academic forms of multiculturalism are eroding the very basis upon which intercultural communication is possible. The article concludes with the formulation of a hypothesis: it is proposed that cultures develop feelings of superiority which are generated by internal crises that cause uncertainty and by external pressures, especially if they involve a loss of power and a concomitant humiliation