Understanding Cultural Diversity, Ethnocentrism, and Pluralism
Cultural Diversity
Different cultures have different ways of carrying out the process of socialization. This can sometimes cause conflict, given the disparity of criteria and values that each culture provides to the interpretation of the world. While human nature is universal, different cultures are unique. Even cultural universals, those elements or dimensions of human life that are present in every society on Earth, are developed in different ways, leading to cultural diversity. Cultures are not watertight compartments; they mix, influence, and modify each other. This produces multiculturalism, the coexistence of multiple cultures in one space, a phenomenon common today and throughout history. Fortunately, the way we understand the problems arising when a culture marginalizes a minority, or a group not belonging to those in power, has changed. Although these phenomena are better understood, we do not always act accordingly. Diversity is still often challenged, and the dominant culture is frequently imposed.
Ethnocentrism
Ethnocentrism, an attitude toward cultural difference, is the belief that one’s own culture is the only adequate one, and even superior to any other. This was the position often assumed by imperialists when invading other cultures. Another problem with ethnocentrism is that it is typically linked to violent activities, such as racism, xenophobia, or aporophobia (rejection of the poor). These attitudes promote not only the exclusion of those outside the dominant culture but may even lead to genocides. The rejection of the authentic as weak and helpless, those who cannot afford a voice to defend their culture, is a manifestation of this phenomenon.
Relativism
Relativism was conceived to overcome ethnocentric prejudices. According to this view, we can only understand a cultural trait within the culture that produced it. There is no way of understanding the world that takes precedence over others: all cultures are equally worthy and important. This attitude of respect for all cultures around the world undoubtedly represents clear progress in promoting tolerance, among other values. However, the result of this attitude can be a stalemate, rather than evolution. If we assert that any custom or tradition is respectable simply by being part of a culture, then we risk justifying behaviors that violate human dignity.
Cultural Pluralism
In contrast to ethnocentrism and cultural relativism, cultural pluralism defends multiculturalism as an attitude of dialogue and respect for different cultures coexisting in the same geographical area within the framework of human rights. This model recognizes the possibility for all cultures to be different from others while being equal in dignity and rights. Ethical values such as freedom, justice, and human rights are universal values, transcending particular cultures. In conclusion, cultural pluralism is the most appropriate model to follow today.