Citation

Monroe KR, Martinez-Martí ML. PS Polit. Sci. Polit. 2008; 41(4): 857-863.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1017/S1049096508081122

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

What is the political significance of difference? Why are ethnic, racial, or religious differences frequently politically significant while differences in height, hair color, or weight are not? Why are linguistic differences sometimes relevant politically, and other times are not salient? What about age? Gender or sexual preferences? What fosters tolerance of differences judged ethically and politically salient? What encourages respect for these differences, leading some of us to reach out across divides that isolate others? These questions take on a poignant immediacy with reports of continuing prejudice and discrimination; ongoing ethnic, religious, and sectarian violence--even genocidal activities and war; and increasing polarization over issues of race, religion, and ethnicity, at home and abroad. They are questions students need to consider as they go out into a world where they will meet new people, from diverse cultures, religions, and ethnicities. How can we best prepare them for this?

Language: en