Clash of cultures and identity. Sociological aspects of multiculturalism in the age of social changes

Bodziany, Marek

Clash of cultures and identity. Sociological aspects of multiculturalism in the age of social changes

Abstract

The XXI century is described as the century of globalization and multiculturalism. Mass migrations, integration processes occurring in the contemporary world, changes, and transformations of political system make the world a global village. Such a situation creates possibilities of getting to know other cultures by the means of diffusion of cultures. This article touches upon development of the theory of multiculturalism, changes in its interpreting under the influence of the factors which participate in its creation. Multiculturalism is undoubtedly a domain of democracy with its tolerance, at least theoretically, to all diversities. Multiculturalism, according to the contemporary approach to this topic, has become a domain of the modern societies which derive its modernity from the achievements of other cultures. Such a situation is possible provided that diffusion of cultures takes place. Open borders can additionally favour the occurrence of this phenomenon.

Keywords

ethnic stratification ethnocentrism national chauvinism stereotypes prejudices tolerance ethnic distance cultural assimilating diffusion of cultures cultural contact intercultural communication multiculturalism national megalomania

Citation

M. Bodziany, Clash of cultures and identity. Sociological aspects of multiculturalism in the age of social changes, Cultural - Historical Psychology, no 4/2008