Genuine Multiculturalism
The Tragedy and Comedy of Diversity
Description
While many modern societies are noted for their diversity, the resulting challenge is to determine how citizens from different backgrounds and cultures can see themselves and each other as equals, and be treated equally. In Genuine Multiculturalism, Cecil Foster shows that a society's failure to bridge these differences is the tragedy of modern living and that pretending it is possible to mechanically develop fraternity and solidarity among diverse groups is akin to seeking out comedy. Arguing that genuine multiculturalism is the search for social justice by individuals who have been trapped by ascribed identities or newcomers who have been shut out of perceived ethnic homelands, Foster details how this process, in essence, is the story of the Americas. Reconceptionalizing the terms of multiculturalism, he offers an intervention into Canada's claim that its definition and practice are based on recognizing equality of citizenship. Identifying genuine multiculturalism as an ongoing work in progress, rather than a tightly defined policy position, Foster challenges readers to imagine a greater and more harmonious ideal. A necessary theoretical reconsideration of diversity within society, Genuine Multiculturalism refocuses the debate about ideals and practices in modern societies.
Reviews
“Genuine Multiculturalism offers an intervention into the Canadian claim of a conception and practice of multiculturalism based on recognition of the equality of citizenship. It is a major contribution to social, philosophical, and literary debates about the ideal and practice of multiculturalism in (post)modern societies and extends the existing scholarship in critical ways.” Andrea A. Davis, Department of Humanities, York University
“Genuine Multiculturalism is a well-crafted, complex study that will cause a buzz across North America and Europe.” W. Andy Knight, director, Institute of International Relations, The University of the West Indies professor, University of Alberta
"This important book discusses the theory of the ideals of multiculturalism, citizenship, and lived experience in the context of Canadian nation building. [It] makes a significant contribution to political philosophy, sociology, and cultural studies. Hig