Gwybodaeth Modiwlau

Firstly, the module will examine how recognition, and in particular cultural recognition, has emerged a central concern in the field of political theory over the past twenty years. It will then analyze the features of the main theoretical approach to cultural diversity available in the literature, that of Liberal Multiculturalism. Following that, a series of critiques of liberal multiculturalism will be examined – some from within the liberal tradition itself and others from without. Finally, the module will consider how some of the ideas concerning multiculturalism that have been discussed, relate to other important issues such as social unity and democracy. This module will be available to students studying through the medium of Welsh and English.

The module will add to the department’s provision in the field of normative political theory. It will enable students to develop an understanding of how the recognition of cultural differences has emerged as a central concern in the field of political theory over the past twenty years. It will also introduce students to a range of important normative questions that political theorists, and in particular, liberal theorists, have faced as they grapple with this new issue. These questions include: How should democratic societies react to the fact of cultural diversity? Can states hope to manage cultural diversity in a neutral manner? Does extending a measure of cultural recognition to certain groups mean that the state is not treating everyone equally? Should we differentiate between the claims made by various cultural groups, for example national minorities and immigrant minorities? How do we judge which cultural claims are acceptable and which ones go too far? To what extent should liberal societies respect cultural practices that are deemed oppressive?