Germany’s discourse about multiculturalism is marked by its contrariness. On the one hand, there are many attempts to implement the theory of multiculturalism in political practice. The slogan of Berlin’s integration concept in 2007 ‘Vielfalt Fördern – Zusammenhalt Stärken’ (Supporting Diversity – Strengthening Cohesion) aimed at the advertisement of the positive potential of the city’s pluralist landscape. On the other hand, the media often issues headlines and statements of politicians who declare multiculturalism in Germany as unsuccessful. The mayor Heinz Buschkowksy of Neukölln, a district in Berlin inhabited by about 30 percent migrants, with his rigorous conclusion “Multiculturalism has failed.” in 2005 caught the attention of the media. In these contradicting positions - the constant efforts to politically apply multicultural theory and then again the questioning whether multiculturalism is generally applicable in Germany - originates the interest to gain an extensive insight into multiculturalism practiced in Germany.
This paper aims to combine the political theory and practice of multiculturalism. Therefore, it inquires how the theoretical concept of multiculturalism is put into practice in a German context as an efficient means to manage immigration. After the definition of the term multiculturalism, this essay will further concentrate on German examples. Due to my own interest and the reason that in my opinion case studies better illustrate the theory I chose to concentrate on the German cities Frankfurt (Main) and Berlin to demonstrate how multiculturalism was implemented there. Within this framework the paper inquires to answer the questions of how German multiculturalism developed and what its characteristics are. Due to the earlier pointed out inconsistencies in the debate about multiculturalism the last part of the paper elaborates and names the main criticisms against the term especially manifest in the case studies.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- 1. Introduction
- 2. What is Multiculturalism?
- 3. Multiculturalism in Germany
- 3.1 Introduction of the Term into Public German Discourse
- 3.2 Implementation on a Local Level
- 3.3 Implementation on a National Level
- 3.4 Criticism to German Multiculturalism
- 4. Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper examines the political theory and practice of multiculturalism in Germany, focusing on how the theoretical concept is implemented to manage immigration. It explores the development and characteristics of German multiculturalism through case studies, primarily focusing on Frankfurt and Berlin. The paper also addresses the criticisms leveled against multiculturalism in the German context.
- The definition and theoretical underpinnings of multiculturalism.
- The introduction and development of multiculturalism in German public discourse.
- Case studies illustrating the implementation of multicultural policies in German cities.
- Criticisms and challenges to the concept of multiculturalism in Germany.
- The tension between the political promotion of diversity and critiques of multiculturalism's effectiveness.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
1. Introduction: This chapter introduces the central paradox of the German discourse on multiculturalism: the simultaneous attempt to implement multicultural policies (exemplified by Berlin's "Supporting Diversity – Strengthening Cohesion" initiative) and the frequent public pronouncements declaring its failure (most notably, the mayor of Neukölln's statement). This contradiction motivates the paper's investigation into the practice of multiculturalism in Germany, aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice by analyzing case studies of how multiculturalism is implemented as a means of managing immigration.
2. What is Multiculturalism?: This chapter explores the historical context of multiculturalism, contrasting it with assimilationist approaches. It uses Glazer's "salad bowl" metaphor to illustrate the core concept of maintaining cultural distinctiveness, contrasting this with the "melting pot" ideal. The chapter then examines Parekh's definition of multiculturalism, emphasizing the need for both independent cultural development and the creation of shared public spaces for inter-cultural cooperation. Finally, the chapter differentiates between "weak" and "strong" multiculturalism, as defined by Grillo, distinguishing between private and public spheres of cultural expression.
3. Multiculturalism in Germany: This chapter, encompassing sub-chapters 3.1-3.4, delves into the multifaceted history and application of multiculturalism within Germany. It begins by tracing the introduction of the term into public discourse, noting the initial resistance to Germany's recognition as a country of immigration and how social problems prompted the adoption of multicultural terminology amongst social workers and academics, before its wider political acceptance. The chapter will then analyze practical implementations at local and national levels, followed by a detailed look at prominent criticisms of German multiculturalism, likely examining the successes and shortcomings of the various approaches adopted.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
Multiculturalism, Germany, immigration, integration, diversity, cohesion, assimilation, case studies, Frankfurt, Berlin, criticism, political theory, public discourse, policy implementation.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview
What is the main topic of this paper?
This paper examines the political theory and practice of multiculturalism in Germany, focusing on how the theoretical concept is implemented to manage immigration. It explores the development and characteristics of German multiculturalism through case studies, primarily focusing on Frankfurt and Berlin, and addresses criticisms leveled against multiculturalism in the German context.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
Key themes include the definition and theoretical underpinnings of multiculturalism; its introduction and development in German public discourse; case studies illustrating the implementation of multicultural policies in German cities; criticisms and challenges to the concept of multiculturalism in Germany; and the tension between the political promotion of diversity and critiques of multiculturalism's effectiveness.
What is covered in the introduction chapter?
The introduction highlights the paradox in German discourse on multiculturalism: the simultaneous attempt to implement multicultural policies and public pronouncements declaring its failure. This contradiction motivates the paper's investigation into the practice of multiculturalism in Germany, bridging the gap between theory and practice through case study analysis.
How does the paper define and explain multiculturalism?
The paper explores the historical context of multiculturalism, contrasting it with assimilationist approaches. It uses Glazer's "salad bowl" metaphor and examines Parekh's definition, emphasizing independent cultural development and shared public spaces for intercultural cooperation. It also differentiates between "weak" and "strong" multiculturalism, distinguishing between private and public spheres of cultural expression.
What does the chapter on "Multiculturalism in Germany" cover?
This chapter traces the introduction of multiculturalism into German public discourse, noting initial resistance and the role of social workers and academics. It analyzes practical implementations at local and national levels and details prominent criticisms of German multiculturalism, examining the successes and shortcomings of various approaches.
What are the specific case studies used in the paper?
The paper primarily focuses on case studies in Frankfurt and Berlin to illustrate the implementation of multicultural policies in German cities.
What are the key criticisms of multiculturalism addressed in the paper?
The paper addresses the criticisms leveled against multiculturalism in the German context, examining the tension between the political promotion of diversity and critiques of its effectiveness. Specific criticisms are explored within the context of the German experience.
What are the key words associated with this paper?
Multiculturalism, Germany, immigration, integration, diversity, cohesion, assimilation, case studies, Frankfurt, Berlin, criticism, political theory, public discourse, policy implementation.
What is the structure of the paper?
The paper is structured with an introduction, a chapter defining multiculturalism, a chapter detailing multiculturalism in Germany (with sub-chapters on the introduction of the term, local and national implementation, and criticism), and a conclusion. It also includes a table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords.
What is the overall goal of this research?
The overall goal is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the theory and practice of multiculturalism in Germany, bridging the gap between theoretical concepts and their real-world implementation and impact, while critically engaging with existing critiques.
- Quote paper
- Manuela Paul (Author), 2009, “Supporting Diversity – Strengthening Cohesion” - Multiculturalism in Germany, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/123210
