Środa 13 Grudzień 2006 4:22:57 pm

Two basic ideas about cultural diversity and identity:

The European Commission and several EU member states are proudly and jointly announcing their ratification of the new UNESCO Convention on the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. At this time, it may be appropriate to ask whether there really exists a common European understanding of cultural diversity and its meaning in everyday life or politics. This question becomes a bit more challenging when we confront the term "cultural diversity" with another one: "cultural identity". Are these concepts antagonistic relatives or simply two sides of the same coin?

Surveying voices in the different forums or blogs of this Website and also some of the re-sources posted to the new "Research in Focus", we could hypothesize that two basic ideas about cultural diversity and identity are prevalent:

The first one is often found among the political class or theorists and networkers in Western countries and could be interpreted as a kind of bird's eyes view that incorporates a more "universalist" perspective: The idea and very fact of "differing diversities" is being acknowledged, even some provisions in favour of "official minorities" exist. On the other hand, there is a widespread reluctance to link this with ideas, or even less with practical measures in favour of, a distinct cultural identity, be it in an ethnic, historical, artistic or other understanding. In-stead, "common European values", more social cohesion, "cosmopolitanism", or even the unifying power of global markets figure high on the agendas.

A second school of thought could be described as somewhat more down to earth or as a "frog's perspective", so to speak. It seems to be more frequently found among politicians from Central and Eastern Europe, among historians and heritage experts, but also among Mrs. or Mr. Average from the street. Among them, real or supposed national values and traditions or regional particularities are still highly esteemed; seen together, they would represent "diversity". In this context, financial aid or concrete government measures to promote a specific cultural identity, e.g. media quota, are welcomed by the public as well as by many artists (and their unions!). Some writers or media workers would surely be joining them, since their individual interests seem to be better taken care of in such an environment. Resentment against a cultural "Europudding" unites the different factions of this large group.

Too black and white? Politically unwise? Maybe, but let's debate this in order to see, if we can generate some new colours and not just grey correctness!