Analyze the concept of multiculturalism by examining the major arguments in support of multiculturalism, then by examining the major arguments opposing it. What perspective do you think best serves public education? Support your position

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

ANSWER: Multicultural education is in many ways “a reaction against assimilation and the melting pot myth.” The most prominent argument for multiculturalism is that all ethnic groups and minorities have contributed to the United States. To only focus on the white, male, European perspective results in an incomplete vision. Multiculturalism seeks to value all groups and their unique perspectives, lifestyles, traditions, and contributions. It also seeks to incorporate more ethnic and minority groups into the mainstream and to critically assess the tradition of male, European dominance in America. Therefore, multiculturalism, some would say, offers a radical perspective of how to view history and culture. The arguments against multiculturalism take two basic positions. One is that an appreciation of various cultures is to be hoped for, yet schools cannot realistically teach the important elements of every culture. Furthermore, many argue that students should focus on the ideas and the forces that have worked to create the United States. They argue that some people, events, and ideas do have greater importance than others. If we focus on multiculturalism to its extreme, some fear, we will lose our commonalities as Americans. The other major argument against multiculturalism is based on the perceived relativism of multiculturalism. Some argue against multiculturalism on a moral basis, claiming that the values of a particular group do not necessarily make something moral.