Multiculturalism concepts and applications

America's fear of multiculturalism and destabilization of the status quo: Insights from "A different mirror" by Ronald Takaki

In the book, "A different mirror," author Ronald Takaki presented thought-provoking arguments that illustrate the present state of multiculturalism and cultural diversity, social issues that predominate in American society. Takaki centers his discussion on the seemingly 'closed-minded' response of most Americans concerning the increasing cultural diversity in the country. This observation is significant because as a growing population, today's ethnic minority is actually becoming the majority, and possibly, create a new definition and description of what being American is like and all about. A serious implication of these observations is that increasing diversity and population of ethnic members of American society would play a vital role in the process of policy-making and establishment of social institutions in the future of America.

There are two interrelated themes discussed in the book: the first focuses on the theme of multiculturalism or increasing cultural diversity in present-day America, and the second theme delved into the increasing intolerance and demand for acculturation to halt the destabilization of the status quo threatened by the majority (i.e., ethnic minority).

The first theme is explicated by Takaki's presentation of facts about the rapid changes happening in America's demography. The author informs his readers that "[c]urrently, one-third of the American people do not trace their origins to Europe; in California, minorities are fast becoming a majority...'Someday soon...Americans will become a minority group" (2). This passage from the book clearly mirrors the reality that he and most Americans face today. His observations reflect the sense of urgency that society must realize and take action for. As America gradually becomes a predominantly diverse society, more and more issues are brought into fore, and this include the formulation of policies and institutions that seek to improve the lives of the 'minority' (i.e., Americans with non-Caucasian race) and provide efficient services for them. This is the greater implication that Takaki elucidates in his book: analyzing a socio-cultural problem to bring about effective solutions for it.