Diversity in America: Keeping Government at a Safe Distance; Chapter 1, Introduction
36 Pages Posted: 30 Mar 2002
Abstract
This chapter describes the extraordinary diversity of American society and some forces that are likely to increase it. I begin by offering and defending a working definition of diversity and diversity-value. As part of this definition, I introduce an important distinction between diversity-as-ideal and diversity-as-fact, noting that diversity-as-ideal is so new that Americans have not yet begun to think seriously about it. Second, I show that diversity's rhetorical power and prestige in the U.S. are at their zenith, and that this distinguishes the U.S. from almost all other societies. Third, I contrast the superficiality of current diversity-talk with the importance of more systematic attention to how we should manage diversity and particularly to law's role. I then map the rest of the book.
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