Toward Cultural Pluralism in Education

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Periodical article

Title:	Toward Cultural Pluralism in Education
Author:	Malakpa, Sakui W.G.
Year:	1996
Periodical:	Liberian Studies Journal
Volume:	21
Issue:	1
Pages:	50-71
Language:	English
Geographic term:	Liberia
Subjects:	acculturation plural society education Education and Oral Traditions Ethnic and Race Relations
Abstract:	This article discusses cultural assimilation as the failure of education to include and enhance the cultures of varied groups in the population. The discussion focuses on Africa in general, but specifically on Liberia and the assimilation practices of settler groups and missionary organizations. Hitherto, both secular and religious education in Liberia directly or indirectly engaged in cultural assimilation. This process is based on the conviction that the cultural practices, beliefs, methods, etc. of certain groups are inferior and therefore members of such groups should become a part of the dominant culture. This ethnocentric concept denies the democratic equality and cultural contributions of nondominant groups in society. The present paper argues that cultural pluralism and the educational method of multicultural education are viable alternatives to assimilation. Bibliogr.