Some crucial social variables which hamper the development of sound intergroup relations in South Africa

Abstract

Abstract Despite general acknowledgement that the South African situation is a complex one, a tendency exists for proposed solutions to be simplistic. Periodic reviews of the crucial social variables which hamper the development of sound intergroup relations in South Africa are necessary to counteract such dangerous oversimplifications. This is best done within a meaningful analytical framework. The typification by D.S. Palmer of three basic types of pluralism is useful in this regard. A discussion of the nature and implications of integrative, divisive, and segmented pluralism serves to emphasize that fundamental and extensive social change in a culturally and racially heterogeneous society may be fraught with hazards. South Africa may be regarded as basically a segmented plural society. This makes a meaningful change in the structure of social relations among the various culture groups very difficult. It may be contended that individual change will have to come about before truly significant societal ch...