MONOCULTURE | A Recent History

Title: The blind spot in our liberal thoughts on cultural diversity

The common conception in contemporary Western thought is that liberalism is the best political principle to shape and maintain a diverse and inclusive society. Within a legal framework that is equal for all, all citizens enjoy the same rights and are bound to the same duties. All can thus participate fully in society. Furthermore, this juridical frame creates a sphere of liberty wherein all can lead their lives in accordance with their own beliefs and ideals. As such, liberalism permits cultural diversity to blossom. There is, however, a blind spot in the liberal view on cultural diversity, namely the paradigm itself. The applauded diversity only seems conceivable within this liberal frame of mind. As a result, diversity is only permitted when it adheres to the liberal logic. What we cultivate is thus not diversity but unity thinking, which is not without risk. A closer look at the political debate in Flanders with regard to the practice of social-cultural work will illustrate this.

Bio:  Jonathan Lambaerts (b. 1985) studied social work (specialising in social-cultural work), philosophy and theology. He worked for several years in the social-cultural sector. Currently, he is a lecturer at the Thomas More University College (campus Geel). He teaches cultural studies, philosophy and ethics in the bachelor programme Social Work and is also coordinator Social-Cultural work.