Privilege or equality: a discussion on multiculturalism-liberalism debate

Official URL: http://risc01.sabanciuniv.edu/record=b1648961 (Table of Contents)

The fact of plurality of social cultures is a central topic of interest and debate for political theorists. Multiculturalists emphasize the value and significance of social cultures over individual liberty. This thesis examines whether cultural rights create an undue privileged position for minorities or whether it fosters equality in liberal states. By acknowledging the value of culture for individuals, this thesis proposes that cultural rights which endow minorities with a special position should not be implemented for the sake of liberal neutrality. As a point of illustration, a neutral liberal state, which I call Hazalistan, is presented in this thesis. Hazalistan is grounded on the principles of equality, freedom, security and diversity. To provide a deeper understanding of these notions, it adduces examples on the regulation of religious rights. Although Hazalistan is an imaginary state, it is not impossible to find relevant real life examples such as Mauritius, which is a liberal state with a multicultural society.