The Different Facets of Diversity and Social Cohesion

Abstract

Globalization, increased mobility, economic restructuring and changing demographics, among other forces, are making Canada an increasingly diverse society. This paper will discuss the various facets of this diversity and will situate them within the context of current concerns about social cohesion. Since the concepts of social cohesion and diversity utilized in the paper are somewhat broad, the introductory section will begin by defining the term social cohesion and the various ways that diversity both contributes to and challenges it. It will then sketch the elements of diversity that are likely to represent the greatest challenges to social cohesion in Canada over the medium to longer-term.