Living together in culturally diverse societies.

Abstract

In this article, I outline some historical antecedents and some core concepts and frameworks that have guided my research on how to live together in culturally diverse societies. Next, I present some empirical evidence from research in Canada and internationally try to show that there are some psychological principles of intercultural relations that may be “universal” in the sense that they operate similarly in many societies. Each principle is rooted in the Canadian policy of multiculturalism, which seeks to promote more positive relations among all ethnocultural communities. I conclude that when individuals who live in culturally diverse societies are able to maintain their heritage identities and also engage in the daily life of the larger society, they achieve better psychological well-being, sociocultural competence, and intercultural relations. These outcomes are best accomplished when the larger society promotes and supports multiculturalism in both policy and programmes.