This paper focuses on the multiculturalism vs. integration debate in Great Britain which was aggravated by a speech held by Trevor Phillips, head of the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE), in spring 2004. At first it is necessary to give definitions of the rather vague terms “multiculturalism” and “integration”. That will be done in chapter two. Chapter three then introduces four main governmental policies in dealing with multiculturalism and takes a look at their theoretical backgrounds. The main part of this paper, chapter four, deals with the lively multiculturalism vs. integration debate in Great Britain. After the major points of Phillips’ speech are presented it is important to give some general facts about multiculturalism in the UK in order to give the discussion a solid basis. There have been plenty of reactions towards Phillips’ speech. Supporters and opponents of his theses have publicly underlined their statements in manifold opportunities. It is not possible to hear them all. Therefore only a relatively small but hopefully well-balanced selection can be given. Finally some own thoughts and ideas will be presented in the conclusion. Unfortunately most of them can only be causes for thoughts because they again lead to a much wider topic which would be part of a new paper.
Table of Contents
1) Introduction
2) Definition of Multiculturalism and Integration
3) Main Governmental Multiculturalism Policies
4) Lively discussions in Great Britain about Multiculturalism
4.1 A controversial speech by Trevor Phillips
4.2 Facts about multiculturalism in the UK
4.3 Reactions towards Trevor Phillips speech
5) Conclusion
Research Objectives and Main Topics
This paper examines the ongoing debate surrounding multiculturalism versus integration in Great Britain, specifically triggered by Trevor Phillips' 2004 speech. The study aims to define these core terms, analyze existing governmental policies, and explore the diverse public and political reactions to the perceived failure of current multicultural models.
- Theoretical definitions of multiculturalism and integration
- Evaluation of governmental policy approaches
- Analysis of the "Trevor Phillips" debate and its impact
- Statistical overview of ethnic minority distribution in the UK
- Examination of British national identity and social cohesion
Excerpt from the Book
4.1 A controversial speech by Trevor Phillips
In spring 2004 Trevor Phillips, the head of the Commission for Racial Equality (CRE), held a very controversial speech about Britain’s multicultural policy which caused a heated public debate that lasts until today.
At first a view words about Phillips and the Commission for Racial Equality are necessary. Trevor Phillips was born on December 31st 1953 in London but then moved to the Caribbean where he was educated. He then returned to England and studied chemistry at Imperial College in London. After his graduation he became a British Labour Politician and a political journalist. Phillips was appointed chair of the CRE on 1 March 2003.
The CRE is a public body which tackles racial discrimination and fights for racial equality. It was founded in 1976 and its guiding principle is: “We work for a just and integrated society, where diversity is valued. We use persuasion and our powers under the law to give everyone an equal chance to live free from fear of discrimination, prejudice and racism.”
So the main goals of the CRE are to encourage greater integration and better relations between people from different ethnic groups and to use its legal powers to help eradicate racial discrimination and harassment. With regard to the Commission’s standpoints it is quite amazing what its head Trevor Phillips said in spring 2004. He warned that Britain was sleepwalking into segregation, ethnic enclaves and potential conflicts.
Summary of Chapters
1) Introduction: Sets the stage for the multiculturalism versus integration debate by outlining the context of Trevor Phillips' 2004 speech and the scope of the paper.
2) Definition of Multiculturalism and Integration: Establishes conceptual clarity by defining the vague terms "multiculturalism" and "integration" and distinguishing them from assimilation.
3) Main Governmental Multiculturalism Policies: Outlines four key policy approaches—monoculturalism, leading culture policy, melting pot, and multiculturalism—and their theoretical backgrounds.
4) Lively discussions in Great Britain about Multiculturalism: Investigates the specific arguments regarding Trevor Phillips' speech, presents statistical facts on UK migration, and analyzes various prominent public reactions.
5) Conclusion: Synthesizes the findings and argues that a functioning society requires a consensus based on the rule of law rather than just shared cultural values.
Keywords
Multiculturalism, Integration, Great Britain, Trevor Phillips, Commission for Racial Equality, Britishness, National Identity, Assimilation, Immigration, Social Cohesion, Rule of Law, Cultural Pluralism, Ethnic Minorities, Public Policy, Segregation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this paper?
The paper explores the tension between multiculturalism and integration in Great Britain, specifically analyzing the debate ignited by Trevor Phillips in 2004.
What are the central themes discussed?
Key themes include the definition of multiculturalism, governmental policies toward immigrants, the concept of "Britishness," and the role of the rule of law in maintaining social cohesion.
What is the main research question or objective?
The objective is to analyze whether the current multicultural model in Britain is sustainable or if a move towards a stronger, values-based integration policy is necessary.
Which scientific approach is utilized?
The paper employs a qualitative analysis of political speeches, sociological concepts, and public reactions, supported by statistical data regarding ethnic diversity in the UK.
What topics are covered in the main body?
The body covers conceptual definitions, a hierarchical breakdown of four distinct state policies, a deep dive into the Trevor Phillips speech, and reactions from diverse public figures.
Which keywords best characterize this work?
The work is best defined by terms like multiculturalism, integration, Britishness, social cohesion, and the role of the rule of law.
What did Trevor Phillips specifically warn against in his speech?
He warned that Britain was "sleepwalking" into segregation, creating ethnic enclaves, and facing the danger of communities becoming marooned outside the mainstream.
How does the author define the role of law in a multicultural society?
The author concludes that for a society to function, the rule of law must be superior to cultural traditions, ensuring that all citizens adhere to the same legal standards regardless of their background.
- Quote paper
- Joachim von Meien (Author), 2006, The Multiculturalism vs. Integration Debate in Great Britain, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.hausarbeiten.de/document/59366
