Multiculturalism : the political theory of diversity today/ Andrew Shorten

Includes index and bibliographical references

1. Introduction
2. Liberal theories of multiculturalism: autonomy and toleration
3. Beyond the liberal tradition: recognition and dialogue
4. Philosophical criticisms of multiculturalism
5. Diversity, cohesion and integration
6. Beliefs and identities: tolerating religious practices and recognizing religious differences
7. Ruling ourselves: self-government rights for national minorities and religious associations
8. Speaking with dignity: linguistic justice for national minorities and immigrants
9. Conclusion

The idea that diverse cultural and ethnic groups should co-exist within a country and that assimilation should not be forced upon immigrant groups -- 'multiculturalism' -- was orthodoxy twenty years ago. Today, it's coming under pressure. In the introduction to the political theory of multiculturalism, Andrew Shorten surveys the leading theories of multiculturalism, the critiques that have been levelled against the idea, and the debates surrounding cohesion, integration and diversity. He then goes on to demonstrate how multicultural political theory can be renewed, arguing that a single, monolithic vision of multiculturalism must be replaced by a multiculturalism made up of different strands, responding to distinctive but interrelated issues, and inspired by real-world policy debates about how political communities should respond to differences of religion, language and nationality. After tracing the influence of earlier multicultural ideas on these debates, Shorten reveals some new and surprising possibilities for mutual learning--back cover