On Legitimate Exclusion and Illegitimate inclusion: A Paradox Theory of Inclusion

Abstract

Inclusion holds numerous benefits, but theory on inclusion suffers from a number of shortcomings regarding its nature and boundary conditions. In conceptualizing inclusion and exclusion as a paradox (i.e. contradictory yet interrelated elements that exist simultaneously), we develop theory on its three dimensions: latency (i.e. including and excluding behaviors), salience (i.e. experiences of inclusion and exclusion), and persistence (i.e. changes in the presence and experience of inclusion and exclusion). By disentangling their latent and salient dimensions, we argue that including and excluding acts and behaviors are complementary and can both be functional and dysfunctional, and legitimate or illegitimate. We further assert that only a fraction of all latent including and excluding behaviors become salient, and advance an understanding of the conditions under which such behaviors are (considered) illegitimate. In subsequently theorizing about the persistence dimension of inclusion and exclusion, we provide insights on the temporal dynamics of inclusion and exclusion, and how including and excluding behaviors and experiences can change over time. Based on our paradox theory of inclusion, we conclude, among others, that inclusion and exclusion can both be beneficial or detrimental, that dialogue is key to fostering inclusion, and that the path towards inclusion requires identity work.