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The
definition of culture has long been a controversy and the
term is used in a variety of ways. One commonly used definition
is:
"[Culture]
is that complex whole which includes knowledge, beliefs, arts, morals,
laws, customs, and any other capabilities and habits acquired by
[a human] as a member of society."* The
term sub-culture is used to refer to minority cultures within a
larger dominant culture.
Cross-border
population flows, such as migration,
lead to increased diversity within societies. This diversity often
refers to the co-existence of a difference in behaviour, traditions
and customs -in short, a diversity of cultures. UNESCO's governing
body, the General Conference, adopted the UNESCO
Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in 2001.
The Declaration, the first of its kind within the international
community, elevates cultural diversity to the rank of 'common heritage
of humanity - as necessary for the human race as bio-diversity in
the natural realm'. Accordingly, the protection of cultural diversity
is an ethical imperative and inseparable from respect for human
dignity. In understanding the concept of cultural diversity it is
well-worth referring to the Declaration:
- Firstly,
the Declaration promotes the principle that "[c]ulture takes
diverse forms across time and space. This diversity is embodied
in the uniqueness and plurality of the identities of the groups
and societies making up humankind. As a source of exchange, innovation
and creativity, cultural diversity is as necessary for humankind
as biodiversity is for nature. In this sense, it is the common
heritage of humanity and should be recognized and affirmed for
the benefit of present and future generations." (Article
1)
- Secondly,
the Convention emphasises the understanding of moving from cultural
diversity to cultural pluralism. "In our increasingly diverse
societies, it is essential to ensure harmonious interaction among
people and groups with plural, varied and dynamic cultural identities
as well as their willingness to live together. Policies for the
inclusion and participation of all citizens are guarantees of
social cohesion, the vitality of civil society and peace. Thus
defined, cultural pluralism gives policy expression to the reality
of cultural diversity. Indissociable from a democratic framework,
cultural pluralism is conducive to cultural exchange and to the
flourishing of creative capacities that sustain public life."
(Article 2)
- Thirdly,
the Convention delineates cultural diversity as a factor in development.
"Cultural diversity widens the range of options open to everyone;
it is one of the roots of development, understood not simply in
terms of economic growth, but also as a means to achieve a more
satisfactory intellectual, emotional, moral and spiritual existence."
(Article 3)
- Finally,
cultural diversity presupposes the respect for human rights. "The
defence of cultural diversity is an ethical imperative, inseparable
from respect for human dignity. It implies a commitment to human
rights and fundamental freedoms, in particular the rights of persons
belonging to minorities and those of indigenous peoples. No one
may invoke cultural diversity to infringe upon human rights guaranteed
by international law, nor to limit their scope." (Article
4)
* Tylor,
E. in Seymour-Smith, C. (1986) Macmillan Dictonary of Anthropology.
The Macmillan Press LTD.
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