Focus on Words

Unit 8 Multiculturalism
Monument to Multiculturalism by Francesco Pirelli in
Toronto, Canada. Four identical sculptures are located
In Buffalo City, South Africa; Changchun, China;
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Sydney, Australia.
Before you read
1. Does globalization tell on modern music/architecture/?
2. Do you understand what multiculturalism/monoculture means?
3. Which do you prefer Eastern or Western culture?
4. What features of globalization do you see in big cities?
5. Do you like modern architecture?
6. Who is your favourite architect?
Read the text and say which point of view is more convincing?
The term globalization is also used to describe cross-cultural contacts. Today
countries in different parts of the world share entertainment, food and, in some respects,
similar attitudes to life losing their identity. Some consider such “imported” culture a
danger. They are worried that it may assimilate the local culture, as a result of which
the world loses its diversity. There are different movements which protest against
globalization in culture. They give new importance to the defense of local uniqueness,
individuality, and identity, but, according to analysts, without success yet.
Multiculturalism is the appreciation, acceptance or promotion of multiple ethnic
cultures, The policy of multiculturalism is often contrasted with the concepts of
assimilationism and social integration.
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