Question

What are the conditions under which democracies accommodate social diversities?

Answer 1

When social differences do not overlap each other, democracies accomodate social diversity. In Northern Ireland, Catholic people are more likely to be discriminated against and be poorer. In this way, being Catholic overlaps with being lesser priveleged. This has caused tensions in the community and resultant war.

Instead, if social differences cut across each other, diversity is accomodated. In Netherlands, Protestants and Catholics are both likely to be rich or poor. Their religious sect does not determine their economic or social status. Protestants and Catholics of Netherlands, thus, live in harmony.

Answer 2

Solution:-

Democracies accommodate social diversities when it is well understood that democracy is not just the rule of the majority and that the rule of the majority is not just the rule of a single religious or social community. The majority always need to work with the minority so that governments function to represent the general view. Majority and minority opinions are not permanent.

In India, different caste groups, as well as weaker section are given proper representation. They are given reservation in government jobs and education. Democracy also ensures that the government is not formed by the majority and has the representation of minorities as well. Every citizen should get a chance of being in majority at some point of time.

In this way, democracy accommodates social diversity as it not only takes the interest of majority but it also takes care of the interests of weaker sections. Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is thus a definite plus point of democratic regimes.