You should submit your essay electronically via Moodle. You may not respond to an essay prompt that is substantially similar to the presentation prompt you respond to.
Essay Two (2,500 words) (50%)
For this assessment, you will submit an essay responding to one of the following prompts: 1. “In the 21″ Century, multiculturalist approaches are the only feasible ways of managing ethnic and cultural diversity”. Discuss. 2. What are the implications of global power inequalities for climate change?. 3. Has the world become more or less unequal since the end of WWII? Why? 4. Does neo-liberal globalisation facilitate or hinder improvements in global health provision?
All essays are due by 17″ April at 12pm, regardless of what topic you are writing about. You may choose any of these topics (with the exception of topic 1; you may only select this topic if you have NOT responded to topic 3 or 4 when responding to Essay One). The essay should be a maximum of 2,500 words in length (bibliography not included, +/-10%). You should submit your essay electronically via Moodle. You may not respond to an essay prompt that is substantially similar to the presentation prompt you respond to.
Submitting Assessments
All written assignments should be submitted through the relevant link on Moodle by 12 noon on the appropriate date, as set out above. Late submissions will be penalised, so you are strongly advised to submit in advance of this time. When submitting a file, please use your student number as the filename (groups should list all student numbers) and submit it in PDF format (or Microsoft Word if necessary). Do not include your name() anywhere on your assessment. There is no need to attach a cover sheet. When you submit your essays, they will be processed by Turnitin. This system is intended to support students in their avoidance of plagiarism and to support staff in their detection and prevention. You may submit a draft of your assessments before the final submission in order to receive an ‘originality report’ and have the opportunity to correct any mistakes you may have made. If you want to submit a draft to Turnitin, you must do this at least 24 hours before or it is highly likely you will not be able to see the Originality Report before the submission deadline. Note that the draft does not replace the submission of the final version. If you only submit the draft, we will not
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Multiculturalism as the Only Feasible Approach to Managing Ethnic and Cultural Diversity in the 21st Century
In a globalized world, ethnic and cultural diversity is an inevitable reality that nations and communities have to face. With the rise of globalization and the interconnectedness of societies, cultural differences have become more prominent than ever before, which can lead to tensions and conflicts if not properly managed. In this essay, I will argue that multiculturalist approaches are the only feasible ways of managing ethnic and cultural diversity in the 21st century. I will first define multiculturalism and discuss its principles. Then, I will examine the challenges that societies face in managing diversity and argue that multiculturalism provides a solution to these challenges. Finally, I will address some criticisms of multiculturalism and argue that they are based on misconceptions.
Multiculturalism is a concept that emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting cultural diversity. According to multiculturalist theory, cultural diversity is not a threat to social cohesion, but rather a source of richness and strength for societies. The principles of multiculturalism include the recognition and promotion of cultural differences, the acceptance of cultural pluralism, the respect for human rights, and the rejection of discrimination based on ethnicity, religion, or culture.
In a multicultural society, diversity is managed through policies and practices that recognize and accommodate different cultural backgrounds. For example, multiculturalism can be reflected in education policies that promote the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences in curricula. It can also be seen in language policies that support multilingualism and the recognition of different languages as part of a society’s cultural heritage.
Despite the potential benefits of multiculturalism, managing diversity is not without challenges. One of the most significant challenges is the potential for conflicts between different cultural groups. This can arise from misunderstandings, stereotypes, and cultural clashes. In some cases, these conflicts can escalate into violence and even lead to social unrest. Another challenge is the potential for social exclusion and discrimination against minority groups. This can result from institutional barriers, stereotypes, and prejudices that prevent individuals from fully participating in society.
Multiculturalism provides a solution to these challenges by promoting the recognition and acceptance of cultural diversity. By recognizing and respecting cultural differences, societies can avoid misunderstandings and conflicts and create more inclusive and tolerant environments. Multiculturalism can also help to reduce discrimination and promote social cohesion by creating policies and practices that support the inclusion of diverse perspectives and experiences.
Despite the potential benefits of multiculturalism, some critics argue that it is not a feasible approach to managing diversity. One criticism is that multiculturalism can lead to the fragmentation of society and the
creation of “ghettoes” where different cultural groups live in isolation from each other. However, this argument is based on a misconception of multiculturalism. Multiculturalism does not promote the segregation of cultural groups but rather the recognition and acceptance of cultural differences. In a multicultural society, individuals are encouraged to maintain their cultural identities while also participating in the broader society. This can lead to a more diverse and vibrant society where individuals are free to express their cultural heritage while also being part of a larger community.
Another criticism of multiculturalism is that it can undermine national identity and unity. However, this argument assumes that national identity and cultural diversity are incompatible, which is not necessarily the case. Multiculturalism does not require the abandonment of national identity but rather the recognition that national identity can be diverse and inclusive. In a multicultural society, national identity can be based on shared values and principles rather than a single culture or ethnicity.
In conclusion, multiculturalism is the only feasible approach to managing ethnic and cultural diversity in the 21st century. Multiculturalism promotes the recognition and acceptance of cultural diversity, which can help to reduce conflicts and promote social inclusion. While multiculturalism is not without challenges, it provides a solution to the complexities of managing diversity in a globalized world. By embracing multiculturalism, societies can create more inclusive and tolerant environments that celebrate cultural differences and promote social cohesion.
