9.3b Pluralism

Pluralism is a condition in which governments allow diverse groups to keep their cultural identities. The extent of cultural differences between in-groups and out-groups under pluralism may vary significantly. For example, pluralist societies, like the United States, may allow people to speak foreign languages in public, but only provide education in one language. Other pluralist societies, like Canada, all children have the right to an education in French or English.

The United States has features of pluralism. For instance, Amish people continue to live a lifestyle distinct from the dominant culture. They use a dialect of German called Pennsylvania Dutch, end their schooling in eighth grade, use horses and buggies for transportation, and use natural gas instead of electricity for lighting and cooking. Despite these and other differences, the U.S. government allows the Amish to continue living their way of life.

Photo 9.9

The Amish Use Horses and Buggies Instead of Cars