Diversity, Multiculturalism, and Pluralism: Moving From Hospitality and Appreciation to Social Inclusion on Campus and Beyond

Abstract

Three of the most important contemporary educational approaches to teaching students about major human differences in college today are diversity, multiculturalism, and pluralism. Each of these educational approaches offers a perspective on human differences that promotes an implicit set of ethical values intended to guide moral conduct and encourage pro-social behaviors. The first calls for hospitality, the second for appreciation, and the third for inclusion. Each approach also affirms a social and political vision of community with different expectations for commitment and responsibility. Not surprisingly, these three educational approaches can also generate varying levels of social stress and conflict. This article examines the characteristics of these three educational approaches for addressing human differences on campus and the strengths and weaknesses each offers, especially for student affairs staff engaged in preparing students for an increasingly diverse campus and global society.