¿Identity or Cultural Hybridization?

Abstract

This paper raises the question of the meaning of the imperative of «preserving the identity», usually taken for granted in the current debate of multiculturalism. The idea of culture, the very fact of present multiculturalism with its unique characteristics, the necessary requirements for dialogue, the ideas of integration and tolerance, and the legitimacy of the demand for universal recognition of cultures are to that end analysed. As a conclusion of this analysis a criticism of the usual approaches is made and some proposals are put forward: neither assimilation nor staunch conservation but integration; dialogue of course but first and foremost living together and collaboration; likewise tolerance and recognition but not indifference. In short, hybridization against cultural identity is proposed.