Should we give up on multiculturalism?

The popularity of multiculturalism in political and media discourse has been high but short-lived. The chapter analyses the main criticisms advanced to the multicultural perspective and the alternatives proposed for a more organic coexistence in difference. The chapter critically analyses the ideas of interculturalism, cosmopolitanism, superdiversity and everyday multiculturalism. Despite the limits of a multicultural vision excessively based on the defence of cultural differences, thought of as homogeneous and stable, the chapter underlines how the basic claims of the multicultural proposal - inclusion and participation of minorities in social and political life; recognition and respect of cultural difference; fight against discrimination and racism; revision of the rules of common life - are still a valid and essential starting point for thinking about a coexistence in difference.