Redefining Diversity and Multiculturalism In Modern American Society

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to explore a theoretical construct and model which re-examines the relationship between diversity and multiculturalism in the United States today. These two terms are often utilized interchangeably. This discussion focuses on the idea that although there is diversity in the public sphere of American society, multiculturalism is a misnomer. The idea of self-contained cultural neighborhoods with inherent rigid characteristics is valid, with few exceptions. The writers theorize that there is value in the idea of public diversity and the maintenance of private (read: less public) cultural boundaries. It should be inferred in visual terms that diversity is two-dimensional and multiculturalism is three-dimensional. The dimensions of diversity include a superficial even if sincere sharing of more outward cultural expressions where as either self-contained culturalism includes all factors of diversity but it is, by nature, nation bound. When attempting to differentiate the discursive on the elements of multiculturalism and diversity a review of the literature suggests confusion exists. While diversity is apparent throughout the United States, multiculturalism often needs to be defined by or assigned to a specific context to make it real. Some researchers have suggested that a significant multiculturalism must include the “politics of equity, economic redistribution, and social restructuring” (also referred to as critical multiculturalism). A model has been developed putting forward the ideas that it could be that the density of the meeting points of different cultures actually might reflect a true interweaving and creation of a common culture based on a melding of language, food, church, and comfort level. Until this melding point occurs, cultures retain separate distinct identities based on separateness of language, food, religion and custom comfort level. A future study will examine if the model is a viable tool to aid in the understanding of multiculturalism and diversity. The researchers will create and administer a survey based on a qualitative research design. The survey shall seek responses which will test the theoretical construct herein introduced.