Digest of scientific articles

Multiculturalism
Building the Bridge between World Cultures
in Twenty-first Century
Dr. Kishor Kumar Tripathy

Abstract contribution to the nation of the many ethno-cultural groups, and

Multiculturalism is the set of values, structures, and practices held it encourages values of equality and mutual respect with regard
in common by a group of people, it is also often used to mean an to race, national or ethnic origin, color and religion. The objectives
environment which differences among communities and groups of multiculturalism are to acknowledge the freedom of all the
are recognized, respected and valued. Multiculturalism goes members of society to preserve, enhance and share their cultural
beyond being aware of differences in culture and being sensitive heritage.- “As an alternative to assimilationism and differentialism,
to them, respects and value diversity. It creates the environment multiculturalism emphasizes that acknowledging the existence
demonstratine the capacity, knowledge, understanding and of ethnic diversity and ensuring the rights of individuals to retain
skills to communicate effectively with culturally diverse people- their culture should go hand in hand with enjoying full access
“Understandably, multiculturalism as a search for democratic public to, participation in, and adhesion to, constitutional principles
policy responses to cultural and ethnic diversity in certain countries and commonly shared values prevailing in the society. By
is of prime interest to UNESCO, in so far as it embodies the ideal acknowledging the rights of individuals and groups and ensuring
of reconciling respect for diversity with concerns for societal their equitable access to society, advocates of multiculturalism
cohesion and the promotion of universally shared values and also maintain that such a policy benefits both individuals and the
norms.” (Christine Inglis-‘Multiculturalism: New Policy Responses larger society by reducing pressures for social conflicts based on
to Diversity’). Multiculturalism is a policy which is response for disadvantage and inequality. They also argue that multiculturalism
copying with cultural and social diversity in society. Multiculturalism is enrichment for the society as a whole.”2 Multiculturalism denotes
is the systematic and comprehensive response to cultural and a particular kind of policy approach that is chiefly used for the
ethnic diversity which also covers educational, linguistic, economic proper management of culturally diverse society. Multiculturalism
and social components. It helps to communicate and interact creates the community where we live alongside one another.
effectively and positively with diverse individuals, cultural practice The term ‘Multiculturalism’ may be explained as “the policy of
and beliefs in a diverse society. The feature of multiculturalism is to accommodating any number of distinct cultures within the one
address issues of diversity and it flourishes democracy, tolerance, society without prejudice or discriminations.” In a multicultural
social justice, Peace and mutual respect between peoples and community special attention is given that everyone has culture
cultures. The moral teachings, beliefs, practices, manners and and it develops acceptance and respect for differences among
moreover the humanistic approach of culture contained in the individuals and different cultural groups.3 Multiculturalism, as a
teachings of diverse cultural practices are the essential factors for policy response to different cultural practices and also a systematic
the establishment of universal peace and harmony. Multiculturalism and comprehensive response to cultural and ethnic diversity, is
in the twenty-first century is a positive approach which aims to useful for creating peace and harmony in the modern world.
create a better world based on unity in diversity, peace, harmony
and co-operation. It has a definite role to build a bridge between the Multiculturalism and Cultural Diversity:
world cultures in twenty-first centruy. Cultural diversity refers a range of different societies or peoples
having different origins, religions, traditions and lives in a society and
Keywords: Multiculturalism, Cultural Diversity, World Culture, interacting together.4 Cultural diversity is a defining characteristic of
Peace, Harmony humanity which provides a common heritage for interaction between
different cultural groups. “Cultural Diversity is ubiquitous in our lives.
Multiculturalism and Its Characteristics: The world is more accessible and every day of our lives, we connect
In a multicultural society, special emphasis is given on tolerance, with people vastly different than ourselves. We need to understand
compassion and integration where all the members celebrate one and appreciate these differences to function effectively in our complex
another’s culturally distinctive and expressions of cultural identity. world. There is no doubt that we all learn from each other and grow
Multiculturalism recognizes the importance of cultural integration each other. We need to remove preconceived biases and learn to
among people from varied cultural backgrounds as the pursuit appreciate each other for the richness we as human beings to
of new relations of democratic citizenship inspired by human relationships, both personal and professional.”5 Cultural Diversity
rights and ideals.1 Multiculturalism as a policy recognized the also makes the nation stronger and better able to compete in the

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age of globalization, where people from diverse cultural traditions Cultural Dialogue & Development- Multicultural
bring new ways of thinking, negotiation skills, creative solutions to Perspectives:
different problems and it also creates a much more interesting place Multiculturalism creates a platform for interaction between world
in which to live for all of its habitants. It is based on the principles cultures. In a broad perspective, multiculturalism accepts various
that cultural identities should not be discarded or ignored, but rather ethnic cultures and treating impartially and fairly each ethnic group
maintained and preserved for the sustenance of human civilization. without promoting the values of a particular culture. Bridging the
Multiculturalism, as a policy response to Diversity has its importance gap between cultures is urgent and necessary for peace, stability
in dealing with diversity.6 It is the set of values, structures, and and development and multiculturalism is a driving force for integral
practices held in common by a group of people and often used to development.10 Followings are some of the objectives regarding
mean an environment which differences among communities and cultural interaction in a multicultural society-
groups are recognized, respected and valued. Multiculturalism goes
beyond being aware of differences in culture and being sensitive to ·· To promote cultural cooperation and to strengthen friendly
them, respects and value diversity- “The issue of multiculturalism relations between traditions, groups and communities.
has been broadly discussed on both scientific and public level. During
some past decades a multiculturalists perspective has been adopted ·· Mutual consultations considering the characteristics of a concrete
by public policy framework in order to deal with cultural diversity.7 In and cross-cultural relations
a Multicultural society, different ethnic and cultural groups contribute
for the social, economic, and cultural values, and synthesize the ·· Cooperation in the field of exploration and collaboration with a
principles and characteristics for adapting to life situations in different view to investigating cultural relations
parts of the world.
·· To establish and develop closer cultural relations and desire of
Multiculturalism and World Culture: promoting and developing in every possible way and on a sound
The world culture presents different geographical features, basis such relations
cultural traditions, manners and customs, which have produced
some of the most ancient civilizations of the world.8 The survival ·· To promote mutual consultations considering the characteristics
and sustenance of human race on the earth depends on cultural of concrete and cross-cultural relationship
values, which thrive on peace, cooperation, good will, love, loyalty
and friendship have to be given more importance than anything ·· Presents the characteristic of unity in diversity and should be
else and have to be maintained at any cost. The approaches continued for the benefit of all.
related to cultural identity and regard for humanity depends on the
development of goodwill for others. The purpose is to encourage ·· Creates a rich and prosperous approach for development
cultural identity and cultural integration which can be a cause of of communities, people’s nations, and emphasizes cultural
a definite asset to the cause of humanity. The idea of shared ideal cooperation, tolerance, social unity and mutual respect between
of humanity and the oneness of all the creatures strives to spread peoples and cultures.
peace, unity and compassion on the world stage and can be utilized
as solutions to global issues related to the survival of cultural Multiculturalism proclaims that everyone has culture and it
identity and human values. The objective of Cultural identity is to develops acceptance and respect for differences among individuals
promote cultural expressions and multiculturalism can play an and different cultural groups. Multiculturalism emphasizes that
important role in this regard. It emphasizes that cultural practice cultural relation as a strategic element for development of world
is an ethical approach based on the principles of Integral Unity of culture. It also recognizes the importance of value systems, major
all human beings. It emphasizes that culture is the philosophy of traditions, diverse system of cultural unity and contribution for
humanism and should be applied for global peace and harmony. cultural co-operation.
Unity in Diversity' has been the distinctive feature of a multicultural
society. To live peacefully has been the motto and this motto has Action Plan Development for Implementation
helped us to create a healthy and pluralistic human civilization of Multicultural principles and Multicultural
based on unity, peace and harmony. Unity in diversity, universal Leadership Management:
friendship and harmony is the supreme doctrine of a multicultural Multiculturalism as a policy response to Diversity, has a
society, which inspires for the future of human unity, peace, and definitely role to play in the areas of valuing diversity, fair access,
prosperity. The manners, way of communicating with one another, participation encouragement and mutual respect, where different
tolerance, secular ideas, spirit of unity, international cooperation, cultural traditions can interact and leave in a peaceful manner.
peace, inter-religious harmony etc. are the important components Therefore, in the age of globalization, multicultural leadership
of multiculturalism.9 The distinguishing quality of humanity, management and action plan development for implementation of
its most precious possession, is the human unity, which was multicultural principles is an essential factor. Followings are some
instructed by the ancient social thinkers or the survival of humanity. of the areas-
The important factor regarding multiculturalism is that it is not
a desirable concept; it is a practical approach, which should be ·· Active consultative mechanisms to involve people from diverse
maintained for the sustenance of human civilization. linguistic and cultural backgrounds;

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·· Development and Implementation of policies with special is the overall development of the human civilization. Contemporary
emphasis on inclusive policies, programs and services which are world developed with scientific advancement and technological
responsive to cultural and linguistic differences; challenges, where materialism has challenged the spirit of human
culture and there is a great question for the survival of the human
·· Maintaining network relationships with ethnic community groups civilization. Selfishness, hatred and global competition have created
and individuals promoting Multicultural representations; the social life of humanity more competitive and painful. There
are global challenges in front of the human civilization, and it is
·· Recognition of understanding that multiculturalism reflects the very difficult for the survival of human values. There is a great
cultural and racial diversity of diverse societies and acknowledges threatening for the survival of human civilization and the whole
the freedom of all members to preserve, enhance and share their world is facing mega problems, like global warming, excessive
cultural heritage; growth of population, war, growth of nuclear powers, destruction
of forest, religious conflicts, racial and ethnic exploitation, poverty,
·· Community engagement focuses to the connection between proper sanitation facility etc. everywhere.12 Although science and
government, community and citizens in the development of technology has given tremendous contribution to solve some of the
policies, programs and services and projects. major problems of the world, it is essentially important to speak
in this context that science cannot meet all the demands of the
·· Identification and consultation with multicultural community twenty-first century without harnessing science and technology
agencies and networks to implement policies in the objective to with the holistic and moral teachings of diverse cultural traditions.
face current issues related to multiculturalism. The present world can benefit from the strengths of both scientific
discoveries and multicultural ideology. Multiculturalism evolve
·· Promotion of strategies that multiculturalism is a fundamental theory and practice of diverse tradition based on an understanding
characteristic of the heritage and identity and it provides an of man, nature and the universe, in experience and practice, by
invaluable resource in the shaping of the future of the world; which global peace and harmony can be created in the modern
world. It is essential for the modern world to look back the
Multiculturalism, Global Peace and Harmony: sublime doctrines of multiculturalism and the concept need to
Global peace and harmony in the twenty-first century is a positive be researched, experienced, and practiced for the achievement
approach which aims to create a better world based on unity of global peace and harmony. Multiculturalism emphasizes that
in diversity, peace and co-operation- “This secular dream of a global peace is an ethical approach based on the principles of
future golden or half-golden age of a more perfected, rational and Integral Unity of all human beings. The basis of multiculturalism
peacefully cooperative society has taken recently a singular step is the comparative instinct value system based on ideas and
forward in the effectuating imagination of mankind and even got ideals, philosophy and spirituality, ethics and morality, which can
as far as some attempt at a first step towards actual effectuation. be considered as the basis of global peace and harmony.13 The
In ideal and imagination it has assumed the form of a political and perspectives of the teachings and practices of multiculturalism are
economic society of the nations which will get rid of the cruel and worth applicable for the realization of human values and to interact
devastating device of war, establish a reign of international law with cultural traditions, which will not only build the bridge between
and order and solve without clash, strife or collision, by reason, world cultures in twentyfirst century; but also will bring global
by cooperation, by arbitration, by mutual accommodation all peace and harmony for the peaceful coexistence of the human
the more dangerous problems which still disturb or imperil the civilization.
comfortable peace, amity and organized productiveness which
should be the reasonable state of mankind. International peace, Conclusion:
an ordered legality and arrangement of the world’s affairs, a Multiculturalism, a policy response to different cultural practices
guaranteed liberty, —or for the unfit a preparation and schooling and also a systematic and comprehensive response to cultural
for liberty,— an organized unity of the life of the race, this is and ethnic diversity has given an extensive effort to cope
the figure of the golden age which we are now promised.”11 democratically with diversity, developed in the very short time-
Multiculturalism helps to communicate and interact effectively and span time. Multiculturalism is a unique concept for building a
positively with diverse individuals, cultural practice and beliefs in a culture of inclusion and a systematic and comprehensive response
diverse society, which will definitely create a peacefully cooperative to cultural and ethnic diversity which also covers educational,
society. The distinguishing quality of humanity, its most precious linguistic, economic and social components. Multiculturalism
possession, is the human value, which was instructed by the helps to communicate and interact effectively and positively with
ancient social thinkers or the survival of humanity. Human being diverse individuals, cultural practice and beliefs in a diverse society.
is the most educable creature in the world. As far as the spirit of Multiculturalism has a bright future and it is a broad political
human civilization is concerned, human values are established in ideology based on a set of specific public policies, focusing on
a society in view of the varied aspects of human life. The values the cultural identity of diverse communities. The manners, way
can be examined in the context of social development, religious of communicating with one another, tolerance, secular ideas,
advancement and continuity of cultural traditions. The history of spirit of unity, international cooperation, peace, inter-religious
human evolution demonstrates that socio-technological evolution harmony etc. are the important components of multiculturalism,
of man changed his social ethics, moral beliefs and social values. which will definitely create a bridge between the world cultures.
The basic objective of the development of spirituality and science Multiculturalism accepts various ethnic cultures and create a

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Digest of scientific articles

platform for interaction which further promotes co-operation and has its roots in nation-states, throughout their histories, when
friendly relation between traditions, groups and communities. confronted with international migration such as, i.e., Canada,
Multiculturalism emphasizes that cultural relation as a strategic The United States and Australia. These states are conventionally
element for development of world culture in the age of globalization referred to as examples of various forms of multicultural society,
and it promotes linkage between cultural interaction and accommodated through nation states public policies.”
development and recognition of the distinctive nature of cultural
activities for a developed cultural relationship. Active consultative 8. Kraemer, Hendrik (1960), World Cultures and World Religions:
mechanisms, developing and implementing policies, maintaining The coming Dialogue based on the Stone Lectures delivered at
network relationships with ethnic community groups, community Princeton Theological Seminary, London: Lutterworth Press
engagement and development of multicultural strategies etc.
are some of the possible areas for development of multicultural 9. Reitz, Jeffrey G. & et. al (2009) Multiculturalism and Social
leadership in twenty-first century. Cohesion: Potentials and Challenges of Diversity, Springer
Science Business Media, BV.
Notes & References:
1. Reitz, Jeffrey G. & et. al (2009) Multiculturalism and Social 10. Modood, Tariq (2013) Multiculturalism: A Civic Idea, UK, Polity
Cohesion: Potentials and Challenges of Diversity, Springer Press
Science Business Media, BV., p. 1
11. Sri Aurobindo (1997) The Human Cycle, The Ideal of Human
2. Multiculturalism: A Policy Response to Diversity, Paper Unity, War and Self-Determination, Complete Works of Sri
prepared on the occasion of the "1995 Global Cultural Diversity Aurobindo, Pondichery: Sri Aurobindo Ashram Trust, pp. 636
Conference", 26-28 April 1995, and the "MOST Pacific Sub-
Regional Consultation", 28-29 April 1995, both in Sydney, 12. Hensel, Sai Felicia Krishna, (2006), Global Co-operation:
Australia, Management of Social Transformations, © UNESCO Challenges and Opportunities in the Twenty-first Century,
1995. Hampshire, Ashgate Publishing Limited, p. xi

3. Kymlicka, Will (2012), Multiculturalism: Success, Failure, and the 13. Phillips, Anne (2001) Multiculturalism, Universalism and the
Future, Washington, DC: Migration Policy Institute, “In most of the claims of Democracy, Democracy, Governance and Human Rights
post-multiculturalists literature, multiculturalism is characterized Programme Paper Number 7, United Nations Research Institute
as a feel-good celebration of ethno cultural diversity, encouraging for Social Development, pp. 9-11
citizens to acknowledge and embrace the panoply of customs,
traditions, music and cuisine that exist in multiethnic society.” p.4

4. Convention on the Protection and Promotion of Diversity of

Cultural Expressions, United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization, 2005. “Cultural diversity” refers to the
manifold ways in which the cultures of groups and societies
find expressions. These expressions are passed on within and
among groups and societies. Cultural diversity is made manifest
no only through the varies ways in which the cultural heritage of
humanity is expressed, augmented and transmitted through the
variety of cultural expressions, but also through diverse modes
of artistic creation, production, dissemination, distribution and
enjoyment, whatever the means and technologies used. p.4

5. Parvis, Leo (2013), Understanding Cultural Diversity in Today's

Complex World, Preface, Embrace Publication and Consulting, LLC.

6. Launikari, Mika & Puukari, Sauli (2005) Multicultural Guidance and

Councelling: theoretical Foundations and Best Practices in Europe,
Institute for Educational Research, University of Jyvaskyla.

7. Neumannova, Radka (2007) Multiculturalism and cultural

diversity in modern nation state, Conference Turin 2007,
University of Economics, Prague Czech Republic, “The issue of
multiculturalism has been broadly discussed on both scientific
and public level. During some past decades a multiculturalists
perspective has been adopted by public policy framework in order
to deal with cultural diversity. The idea of multicultural society

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