Why Cosmopolitanism is More Than Diversity: A Deeper Exploration
Introduction: The True Essence of Cosmopolitanism
When we think of cosmopolitanism, we often associate it with diversity. However, as Janan Ganesh’s article highlights, being diverse is not the same as being cosmopolitan. Exploring the concept of cosmopolitanism and its implications for society, this article seeks to delve deeper into the topic, providing unique insights and perspectives that will captivate readers and broaden their understanding. As a well-informed piece, this article aims to engage readers and offer practical examples and anecdotes to enhance their knowledge on the subject matter.
The Difference Between Diversity and Cosmopolitanism
Many people use the terms “diverse” and “cosmopolitan” interchangeably, assuming that they mean the same thing. However, they carry distinct meanings and connotations. While diversity refers to the existence of various ethnic groups, languages, and religions in one place, cosmopolitanism goes beyond mere demographics. It is a state of mind, characterized by a worldly perspective and informed indifference. Cosmopolitanism embraces diversity but also implies a certain level of assimilation and openness to different cultures. Let’s explore this distinction further.
The Material Fact of Diversity
Imagine a city with a vibrant mix of ethnic groups, numerous languages spoken, and a mosaic of religions. This is what we typically consider a diverse city. The material fact of diversity is undeniable and can be objectively observed through population demographics. However, while diversity is an important aspect of cosmopolitanism, it is not the sole determining factor.
The State of Mind: Informed Indifference
Cosmopolitanism involves a unique state of mind that transcends the material fact of diversity. It is characterized by an informed indifference, a perspective that sees the world and avoids getting caught up in the minutiae of particular ethnic or group identities. Cosmopolitan individuals have a broader understanding of the world, acknowledging and appreciating cultural differences without becoming overwhelmed by them. They approach life with a sense of curiosity, openness, and the willingness to learn from diverse perspectives.
The Pitfalls of Provincialism
Despite the inherent value of cosmopolitanism, there are pitfalls to be aware of. Janan Ganesh criticizes what he calls the “awakened” movement for its provincialism. These individuals may fall prey to ideologies and group identities that can be exhausting and dehumanizing. While they claim to fight for diversity and inclusivity, their perspective often lacks a nuanced understanding of cultural differences. By treating all non-white people as if they were on the same side, they inadvertently ignore the complexities and nuances of diverse communities.
The Importance of Informed Diversifiers and Inveterate Cosmopolitans
As Ganesh points out, it is essential to have informed diversifiers and inveterate cosmopolitans who truly understand the intricacies of diverse communities. These individuals recognize that people of color are not a unified bloc and that cultural, ethnic, and racial identities are multifaceted. Without this understanding, attempts to promote diversity and combat discrimination can falter, as evidenced by the surprise of the cultural left when Hispanic voters turned Republican or Asian students petitioned against affirmative action. A narrow-minded approach to diversity limits our ability to understand and address the complexities of societal issues.
Can a City be Cosmopolitan Without Being Diverse?
While diversity is often seen as a prerequisite for cosmopolitanism, it is worth exploring whether a city can be cosmopolitan without being diverse. Jan Morris, a renowned travel writer, mentions Trieste and Venice as potential examples of cosmopolitan cities. These cities may not boast a significant mix of ethnic groups but still embody the essence of cosmopolitanism through their multiculturalism and open-mindedness. In these cities, assimilation and cultural exchange are valued, creating an environment that transcends the confines of ethnic diversity.
What Sets Cosmopolitanism Apart: Multiculturalism vs. Multiethnicity
To qualify as cosmopolitan, a place must embrace multiculturalism, not just multiethnicity. While diverse ethnic groups contribute to a city’s vibrancy, true cosmopolitanism is achieved when different cultural practices and perspectives are acknowledged and celebrated. A crucible where cultures interact and new ideas emerge is a testament to the cosmopolitan nature of a city. The French Republic’s emphasis on assimilation, while controversial, also exemplifies the pursuit of a unified culture through embracing diversity.
The Key Ingredient: Self-Esteem and Confidence
Cosmopolitanism requires a special degree of self-esteem and confidence in the host territory. It is an unspoken statement that says, “The essence of this place can survive all changes.” This mindset allows for openness and acceptance of diverse cultures and perspectives without compromising a city’s core values. The ability to maintain cultural integrity while engaging with the world is a testament to the strength of cosmopolitanism.
London: A Model of Cosmopolitanism
Janan Ganesh uses London as a prime example of a cosmopolitan city. London is renowned for its acceptance and celebration of diversity, making it a cultural mosaic. The city’s success lies in its ability to provide individuals the freedom to be themselves. While other cities like Dubai, Toronto, and Bangkok exhibit aspects of cosmopolitanism, London’s unique blend of centuries-old traditions, geographic location, respect for privacy, and reliance on the rule of law makes it unparalleled in cultural laxity.
The London Phenomenon: Live and Let Live
London’s hallmark achievement is its code of “live and let live,” allowing individuals to coexist without imposing strict societal norms. This ethos blurs the line between cultural acceptance and potential nihilism, as explored by Joseph Conrad in “The Secret Agent.” London’s success in fostering cosmopolitanism lies in its ability to strike a delicate balance between freedom and social cohesion.
London’s Cultural Laxity and the Preservation of Essence
London’s cultural laxity is a manifestation of its self-esteem as a city. It confidently embraces cultural diversity while preserving its essence. This balance ensures that London remains a beacon of cosmopolitanism without diluting its core values. While other cities may seek to emulate London’s model, their success will depend on a combination of factors that cannot be easily replicated.
Cosmopolitanism as a True Feat: Beyond Diversity
Conclusion: The Essence of Cosmopolitanism
In conclusion, being cosmopolitan is more than just being diverse. While diversity is an important aspect, cosmopolitanism encompasses a state of mind characterized by informed indifference and an openness to diverse perspectives. It goes beyond the material fact of diversity and embraces multiculturalism and assimilation. London serves as a prime example of a cosmopolitan city, where cultural laxity, respect for individual differences, and the preservation of essence coexist harmoniously. As we strive for a more inclusive society, it is crucial to foster cosmopolitanism, ensuring that diversity is celebrated and understood in its nuanced and multifaceted nature.
Summary: Cosmopolitanism goes beyond the material fact of diversity. It is a state of mind characterized by informed indifference, openness to diverse perspectives, and a willingness to learn from different cultures. London serves as a prime example of a cosmopolitan city, embracing multiculturalism while preserving its essence. As we navigate the complexities of a diverse world, fostering cosmopolitanism is essential to promote inclusivity and understanding.
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Dinner with a couple who is in town for a week. Then with another. Each couple, unknown to the other, expresses a desire to move to London. Each testifies that it is more “cosmopolitan” than its current habitat. There is no news there. A common report.
Now, if I tell you that one of the couples lives in Paris and the other in New York, you might perk up a bit. After all, nobody walks through those two cities and laments the lack of human diversity.
And that is the point of this column. Being diverse is not the same as being cosmopolitan. One is a material fact: so many ethnic groups in one place, so many languages spoken, so many religions professed. The other is what? — a state of mind. Defining it is hard, but here is my best chance: see the world and not worry too much. It’s a kind of informed indifference. Some people fall for the first point. As good as your intentions are, your experience is limited. Their focus on ethnic or other group identities can be exhausting and even dehumanizing.
You fail on both counts and you’re, well, you’re “awakened,” aren’t you? My complaint with that movement is not the falling of statues and the cancellation of people. Most ideologies are intolerant. Having seen how the tabloids try to intimidate judges, I would prefer not to trust conservatives with cultural power. No, what squeaks is something else. they’re so provincial. So confused about the non-western world they intend to fight for. Ignorance manifests itself in treating “Africa” as if it were a state, the empire as something European, and all non-white people as if they were more or less on the same side.
They are expert diversifiers and inveterate cosmopolitans. That’s why, when many Hispanic voters turned Republican and Asian students petitioned against affirmative action, the cultural left didn’t see it coming. A more worldly group would have known that “people of color” are not a coherent bloc. (Let me tell you about a place called Sri Lanka).
If a city can be diverse without being cosmopolitan, can it be cosmopolitan without being diverse? Jan Morris, the great travel writer, might have mentioned Trieste or Venice at various points in his stories. Above all, to qualify as cosmopolitan, a place has to be multicultural, I think, not just multiethnic. A crucible is a noble thing. So is assimilation under the French republic.
But neither suggests an indifference about the difference. No, that requires a special degree of self-esteem in the host territory to achieve it. The unspoken statement is: “The essence of this place can survive all changes.”
Eighteen joules ago, terrorists dropped deadly bombs around my city, killing 52 people. By way of response, the then-mayor told those who supported the cause of the assassins to keep an eye on our airports, seaports, and international railway terminal in the days that followed. People from everywhere would still flock, he said, because London allows them, how the words have stuck, “to be themselves.”
Revealing phrase, right? He could have said “become British”. Or “to improve their lives.” Or something like that. And look, you can do those things. She had done both by then. (I’m a mediocre cosmopolitan. Too grounded in one place.)
Instead, what it stopped at was the absence of pressure, not only from the state but from other citizens, to be this way or that way. This code of live and let live can border on nihilism. It is what Joseph Conrad addresses in the secret agent. But having been back for a year, I recognize it as the hallmark achievement, even the point, of London.
And while something in the same spirit pervades Dubai, Toronto and Bangkok, I don’t expect another city to match this cultural laxity in my lifetime, relying as it does on things that can’t be magically created anywhere: centuries of habit, geographic location, the English reverence for the private realm and the utmost reliance on the law as the sole binding agent. West London in particular, despite all my complaints about its erratic taste, is a master at this. There may be some slab of Earth more replete and even more unconcerned with national differences, but fortune has not led me there.
“Let’s stand up for diversity,” read a sign held up at a protest last week over the US Supreme Court’s ruling against affirmative action. Well I guess. But diversity can be learned. Look at Germany two generations ago and Germany now. Look at some of the UK’s top civil servants. Japan is relaxing on immigration. Cosmopolitanism, even more difficult to achieve than to define, is the true feat.
Email Janan at janan.ganesh@ft.com
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