Multiculturalism as a promoting factor for national division - Research Paper Example

Multiculturalism Multidimensional social, linguistic, economic, cultural, and political transformation are occurring in the United State. Therefore, the traditional perspective of national-states is being debated on from different points of view. American policy makers aim at achieving political and economic integration. Similarly, they strive to promote and safeguard the linguistic and cultural pluralism. This is based on the perception that pluralism and diversity are essential assets for sustenance of economic and political integration. In efforts to preserve linguistic pluralism, United States has documented several rights where the language of the minority is sheltered. Based on this argument, it is purported that multiculturalism promotes principles such as tolerance, equality, and inclusiveness to all immigrants of different ethnic background. Multiculturalism protects all citizens’ identities, thus, providing them with a sense of belonging. Multiculturalism socially distinguishes itself as a corrective alternative for assimilation policies, likening recognition of cultural identities and citizenship rights of minority ethnic groups. This is aimed at affirmation of cultural diversity value (Dinesh 2). However, despite the advocacy for multiculturalism and assimilation, conservative critics argue against the above stated concepts. It is perceived that multiculturalism fosters separatism and poses a threat to social cohesion and national unity. Multiculturalism is viewed as a promoting factor for national division. Critics emphasize on the importance of a common culture in order for a peaceful functioning of a nation. A halt on immigration and assimilation calls by critics have countered the multiculturalists’ cultural diversity and credo of valuing. Therefore, this paper evaluates two articles; one based on need for assimilation of immigrants into the American culture as a means of recognizing multiculturalism while the other disqualifies the opinion. The analysis is presented in the table as shown below (Dinesh 5). A summary of two articles on multiculturalism Topic Titles  Immigrants must assimilate into America Culture: An Overview Multiculturalism will segregate society culturally and economically: An Overview Main Idea of Viewpoint Expressed The article presented the popular view that people should retain their cultures and traditions, but they should also assimilate to a certain degree in order to strengthen the social fabric. The article presents the view that cultural and economic divides present among the immigrants and the natives will be exacerbated by multiculturalism. Intended Audience The article is intended for readers who are interested in learning more about importance of culture assimilation in America. The article is intended for readers who are interested in learning about the disadvantages of multiculturalism. Author’s Credentials/Affiliations   The article presents no authors credentials. Nevertheless, The author supports the argument by evaluating United states population and immigration. No credentials were given for the author in the article. The author substantiates the argument by drawing evidences from laws and events in the American history. Support for Author’s Viewpoint The author supports the argument by analyzing Americas infant and immigrants’ population. The author supports the argument by evaluating disadvantages of assimilation as posed by other researches. Is Information fact centered or value-centered? The information in the article is value centered. It discusses importance of immigrants’ assimilation. The information focuses on facts against assimilation of multiculturalism in America. Thus, the article is fact centered. Is Information Current? The most current information entailed 2011 Santorum evaluation of how multiculturalism is threatening America and Wooldridge discussion on multiculturalism an uncontrollable chaos. The information is not the most current. The most latest information presented by the author included 2010 Riley research on transition from American white supremacy to multiculturalism. Are References and/or A Bibliography Included? A number of bibliographical sources which were used are included at the bottom of the article A number of bibliographical sources which were used are included after conclusion of the article Article mode of presentation The article is presented in a sociological framework. However, it can be addressed on a legal framework. The article is presented purely on a sociological framework. Major POV Citation   Fuchs, Lawrence H. "Immigration, multiculturalism, and American history." National Forum 74.3 (Summer94 1994): 42. Academic Search Complete.EBSCO.7 Aug. 2008 Alexander, Jeffrey C. "Theorizing the "Modes of Incorporation": Assimilation, Hyphenation, and Multiculturalism as Varieties of Civil Participation." Sociological Theory 19.3 (Nov. 2001): 237. Academic Search Complete.EBSCO.19 Mar. 2009. In conclusion, though United States is characterized by diverse religions, languages, and ethnicities, these facts must not be used to degrade the nation’s unity. In regards to this, proponents advocate for assimilation of other cultures, failure to which there is likelihood of the nation weakening and turning chaotic. Therefore, the author of “Immigrants Must Assimilate into American Culture” proposes for recognition of a common culture and language in addition to their cultures. Hence, multiculturalism should be allowed. However, implementation of multiculturalism is declined by critics. Multiculturalism is purported to encourage economic and cultural divides between natives and immigrants. Work Cited Dinesh, D'Souza. "Multiculturalism: Fact or Threat?" Imprimis, 30, 9 (September 2001): 1-6. Read More