INTERCULTURALISM
The meaning of the word “intercultural” is “between cultures,” referring to interactions, communications, and exchanges of experiences between cultures. Interculturalism denotes a philosophical exchange among different cultural groups or subgroups within society, making it one of the most important tools for raising awareness about cultural diversity. Interculturalism pertains to how members of one group relate to another community and its members, both globally and individually, thereby playing a significant role in experiencing cultural differences. In societies where majority and minority cultures coexist, interculturalism assumes the inclusive participation of the host or majority society in actively integrating minority communities or newcomers, without assimilating or melting them into the dominant culture. Therefore, the model advocates for the acceptance of the dominant culture in the area, while also seeking commonalities and respecting individual differences. In simpler terms, interculturalism can be understood as elevating the state of multiculturalism—a condition or given state where different cultures coexist within the same territory—to a higher level where these cultures not only coexist but also communicate, understand each other, and engage in mutual, constructive cooperation. Today, intercultural sensitivity plays a significant role in international relations, alongside the existence of intercultural educational models. Notable international examples of interculturalism include Canadian interculturalism and French interculturalism.
cultural diversity: Cultural diversity encompasses the aggregate of ways in which the cultures of different groups and societies are expressed. These expressions include language, art, modes of thinking, eating habits, and any other characteristics specific to the culture of a particular group.
experiencing cultural differences: The model of experiencing cultural differences can be likened to a scale with the following stages: denial, defense, minimization, acceptance, adaptation, integration. At one end of the scale is denial, which involves ignoring the culture of another group, nation, or community, potentially leading to uncomfortable situations (for example, during international negotiations or visits to foreign countries). As we move along the scale from denial towards integration, sensitivity becomes more refined—meaning we are increasingly capable of recognizing, acknowledging, accepting, and respecting the differences of other cultures.
international relations: In our globalized world, interculturalism is not only significant in regions where multiple cultures coexist, but also plays a crucial role in international relationship building. Understanding and respecting each other’s cultural customs, traditions, as well as ways of thinking and communicating, helps bridge cultural differences. Intercultural sensitivity reveals how accepting, tolerant, or rejecting members of one group are towards members of another group.
intercultural educational models: Since interculturalism and an intercultural mindset cannot be directly taught, the essence of intercultural education lies in creating pedagogical environments where students interact and engage in situations that cannot be resolved without cooperation and the acceptance and respect of shared norms.
Canadian interculturalism: The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, established in 1982, enshrines multiculturalism as a significant value for Canadians. The Charter states: “The Charter shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with the preservation and enhancement of the multicultural heritage of Canadians” (Section 27). As part of the constitutional text, the document guarantees numerous rights, freedoms, and (for minorities) additional rights, the application of which fosters interculturalism in Canadian society. Beyond mere coexistence, the Canadian intercultural model emphasizes quality communication and cooperation among diverse groups. It focuses on recognizing and respecting cultural differences while striving for equality among them.
French interculturalism: French interculturalism differs significantly from the Canadian interpretation. This model does not emphasize the recognition of religious, linguistic, and other cultural differences but rather aims to create a kind of “neutral space” primarily for French citizens who (according to the model’s assumptions) have transcended their other social affiliations (ethnic, religious, linguistic, etc.). The French education system also strives to educate individuals in a republican spirit where they are capable of transcending their various affiliations.