Mapping Multiculturalism

Modern nation-states are increasingly confronted with minority groups demanding recognition of their identity and accommodation of their cultural differences. These groups are questioning the majoritarian underpinnings of liberal democratic institutions and a consensus seems to be emerging that a commitment to liberal democratic principles is compatible with and does require support and public recognition of different cultures and identities. The reverberations of this ‘politics of recognition’ have reached the academia and in recent times issues concerning multiculturalism and minority rights are in the forefront of debates in political and social theory. Among the contributors to this volume are several leading political theorists, sociologists and historians who have played a major role in initiating the debate in Indian academia. The essays not only deal with the theoretical issues and debates on multiculturalism and its effect on disciplinary boundaries but also provide a cross-cultural comparison between India and Canada on issues such as identity politics, minority rights and nationalist and religious movements. The volume will therefore be of special interest to students and teachers of political science, sociology and history and also to those researching on issues concerning multiculturalism, minority rights and identity politics