What Are the Pros and Cons of Multiculturalism?

Multicultural societies have many positive aspects. Exchanging experiences with, learning from and simply being exposed to people of different cultures can broaden the minds of the citizens of multicultural societies and improve the intellect of the society as a whole. However, unless there is complete tolerance and respect for all people of all cultures or races in the society, conflict between the different cultures and races is almost unavoidable.

Supporters of multiculturalism see it as a tolerant system that adapts well to social issues. They believe that culture is not a single, unchanging, definable entity based on race or religion but rather the result of multiple factors that change as the world changes.

On the other hand, many people argue against multiculturalism. They say that many different cultures cannot co-exist and influence each other while also remaining separate cultural identities. They argue that the distinct culture of the host nation fades and eventually gets lost because of multiculturalism. It is also said that large ethnic diversity can negatively affect social trust. The speakers of such arguments support differentialism, the belief that it is important to protect differences, especially those of an ethnic or cultural nature. Differentialists often do not support ethnic superiority but rather the idea that different ethnic groups and cultures are incompatible.