The Future of Multicultural Britain : Confronting the Progressive Dilemma

This book identifies two key themes: (i) that contemporary global politics has rendered many of the world’s democracies susceptible to the rhetoric and policy of majoritarianism; and (ii) that majoritarianism plays on popular anxieties that invariably gravitate towards cultural identity and multiculturalism.

politics are deeply affected by issues surrounding cultural identity. Profound cultural diversity has made national majorities increasingly anxious and democratic governments are under pressure to address those anxieties. Multiculturalism - once heralded as the insignia of a tolerant society - is now blamed for encouraging segregation and harbouring extremism.Pathik Pathak makes a convincing case for a new progressive politics that confronts these concerns. Drawing on fascinating comparisons between Britain and India, he shows how the global Left has been hamstrung by a compulsion for insular identity politics and a stubborn attachment to cultural indifference. He argues that to combat this, cultural identity must be placed at the centre of the political system.Written in a lively style, this book will engage anyone with an interest in the future of our multicultural society.