Multiculturalism has recently been declared dead; at the same time, the value of diversity is still emphasised. How can we explain this? This book sets out to completely reassess liberal theories of multiculturalism, and argues that the ‘backlash’ is actually the strengthening of tendencies already present in liberal multiculturalism. Using the theories of Roberto Esposito, it argues that liberal multiculturalism is best understood as a series of immunitary processes. Some of these processes are analysed under the rubrics of rights, consensus, and recognition (as exemplified in the work of Kym ... More

Multiculturalism has recently been declared dead; at the same time, the value of diversity is still emphasised. How can we explain this? This book sets out to completely reassess liberal theories of multiculturalism, and argues that the ‘backlash’ is actually the strengthening of tendencies already present in liberal multiculturalism. Using the theories of Roberto Esposito, it argues that liberal multiculturalism is best understood as a series of immunitary processes. Some of these processes are analysed under the rubrics of rights, consensus, and recognition (as exemplified in the work of Kymlicka, Parekh, and Taylor respectively). The perspective of immunisation allows us to see that, rather than being concerned with preserving difference, liberal theories of multiculturalism are an attempt to strengthen liberalism through a partial incorporation of the Other that, while diversifying liberalism slightly, leaves it essentially unchanged. The book concludes by looking to what cultural coexistence beyond immunity might be like, engaging with ideas of rhythm in the process.