Diversity, Cultural Pluralism, Multiculturalism and Biculturalism

Community Psychology advocates recognising the cultural context within which individuals operate. As such, it is crucial to appreciate cultural diversity, whether this be ethnic or otherwise. The psychologist has a responsibility to attempt to work within culturally appropriate frameworks when working with individuals or groups from different cultures. Cultural pluralism is a concept that suggests that many different cultural groups exist within one society, maintaining relatively separate identities and cultures.

 Multiculturalism on the other hand, suggests that many different cultures coexist within a larger community, and share some aspects of their cultures across groups. This has become a popular buzz word for Australian politicians, particularly with the controversial views of One Nation and Pauline Hanson. Nevertheless, it is a word that applies relatively well to our society, where people from many different cultural and ethnic backgrounds live in integrated areas (geographically at the very least). As a result, there is quite a high level of sharing of cultures.

 Biculturalism is a concept that has limited relevance within an Australian context, since it relates to a society where only two different cultures coexist. New Zealand, with Maoris and Pakehas (whites) is a good example of a bicultural society.