Multiculturalism as Nationalism: A Discussion of Nationalism in Pluralistic Nations

In: Canadian review of studies in nationalism: Revue canadienne des études sur le nationalisme, Band 30, Heft 1-2, S. 103-123

Abstract

An exploration of the politics of multiculturalism as a political framework & ideology focuses on the dialectical nature of its relationship with nationalism, especially in terms of the rhetoric surrounding opposing terms like collective/distributive justice; monolingual/bilingual; & religious tolerance/common morality. It is argued that multiculturalism has itself become a form of nationalism that attempts to meet competing demands for both the inclusion & exclusion of difference. Differences between academic & popular notions of multiculturalism are examined, along with how dialectical tensions between idealist & realist approaches to international relations often prompt scholars to opt for a cautious middle ground. A description of multicultural nationalism highlights the confusion surrounding attempts to distinguish between the ideologies & policy directions of multiculturalism & nationalism. Australia is said to present a compelling case for reinventing national tradition by introducing policies designed to "serve multicultural ideals of diversity while simultaneously binding the nation in some unitary effort." It is concluded that multicultural ideology is often the most powerful way for a pluralistic society to define its imagined boundaries. J. Lindroth