Interculturalism facts for kids

Interculturalism is the philosophy of exchanges between cultural groups within a society.

Various states have intercultural policies which seek to encourage the socialization of citizens of different origins. These policies are often used as an instrument to fight racism.

Interculturalism requires openness to be exposed to the culture of the "other". Once a person is exposed to an element of a different culture, a dialogue] will evolve, where everyone embarks upon understanding the culture of the other, and usually this involves comparisons. Thus, interculturalism breeds dialogue, in order to be able to look for common traits between one culture and another.

Interculturalism seeks to enhance fusion, therefore various cultures merge. The differences that remain make up the subcultures of the world.

Interculturalism vs Multiculturalism

Within a country, a distinction can be drawn between interculturalism and multiculturalism. Multiculturalism is the idea that all cultures and civilizations are of equal value and should be treated and promoted equally within the same nation.

Interculturalism is a political ideology that does not give all cultures the same level of value, as a basis to organize a given society. Its main objective is rather to develop a common culture based on the values of freedom and liberty, and of human rights, as derived from the Western civilization, while encouraging interaction between the communities living in the same country.

See also

In Spanish: Interculturalismo para niños