Page 1 - Lesson Note

Class-XII

Chapter-6

The Challenges of Cultural Diversity

(Module-1)

Short Notes :

 The term ‘diversity’ emphasises differences rather than inequalities. When we say
that India is a nation of great cultural diversity, we mean that there are many
different types of social groups and communities living here.

 These are communities defined by cultural markers such as language, religion,
sect, race or caste.

 When these diverse communities are also part of a larger entity like a nation,
then difficulties may be created by competition or conflict between them.
Cultural diversity presents tough challenges

 The difficulties arise from the fact that cultural identities are very powerful – they
can arouse intense passions and are often able to moblise large numbers of
people.

 Sometimes cultural differences are accompanied by economic and social
inequalities, and this further complicates things.

 Measures to address the inequalities or injustices suffered by one community can
provoke opposition from other communities.

 The situation is made worse when scarce resources – like river waters, jobs or
government funds – have to be shared.

Community Identity

 Community identity is based on birth and belonging rather than on some form of
acquired qualification or ‘accomplishment’.
 These kinds of Identities are called ‘ascriptive’- that is they are determined by the
accidents of birth and do not involve any choice on the part of the individuals
concerned.