Biculturalism
Biculturalism is the existence of two different cultures in the same country or region. Biculturalism is the concept of crossing across different countries. In this essay, we will be able to know whether or not all immigrants can attain biculturalism throughout their residence abroad and if this is advantageous or not. We will also discuss the disadvantages of attaining biculturalism.
Biculturalism has been described in several ways. The most general definition of biculturalism is the representation of proficiency and comfort with a person’s traditional culture and the culture of the region or country where he has settled. Immigrants may decide to show their cultural pride despite the threats of persecution or discrimination, and by doing so, may soon help monocultural society to cope with the existence of immigrants. Thus, not all immigrants achieve biculturalism. There are cases that current events affect the acceptance of immigrants to a certain country, such as the events of September 11 of year 2001, which resulted in an unfavorable treatment for Muslims in America and Europe. Politics may also affect immigrants’ achievement of biculturalism, especially those who are illegal immigrants. These immigrants are usually deported once identified.
Biculturalism is an advantageous case because if an immigrant adapts the culture of the country or region where he chooses to permanently reside, he would be more flexible and it would be easy for him to cope with the environment, and live a normal life. However, there are some disadvantages of attaining biculturalism, and the most common disadvantage is discrimination. Some native societies may view biculturalism as a threat to their national identity such as their language, culture, religion and economy. These societies fear that immigrants might influence and change their beliefs and culture and this thought may result into a negative reception to immigrants (Schwartz & Unqer, 2010).
References
Schwartz, S. J., & Unqer, J. B. (2010). Biculturalism and Context: What Is Biculturalism, and When Is It Adaptive? Commentary on Mistry and Wu. Karger Human Development, 53(1), 26-32.
