Abstract

This book provides a discussion of multiculturalism from a global perspective. It progresses from a discussion of the ideological and philosophical arguments for multiculturalism through its political, public policy, and socio-economic dimensions. Multicultural practices from Canada, Germany, India, Israel, Nigeria, Rwanda, the United Kingdom, and the United States are discussed. The response to multiculturalism differs from one country to the other and is influenced by the political context, rules of immigration, colonial legacy, domestic institutional structures, and pressure from interest groups. Because multiculturalism is a contentious issue as groups vie for limited resources, the debate on multiculturalism will be a heated one. Governments can facilitate the process by creating an environment that enables the exchange of ideas without conflict and antagonism.