re: #225 researchok

Her argument is sophomoric at best.

When she speaks of multiculturalism, she isn’t addressing the issues in the same way as Merkel and Sarkozy, for example.

Esman sees the problem as one of the lack of assimilation by some groups. This indicates her misunderstanding of what much of the European issues there are with immigrants.

Assimilation is a choice. One camn assimilate as much or as little asone wishes to. The Amish, Mennonites, Hasidim all have chosen to hardly assimilate at all. That is their right.

The real issue is one of integration, that is, abiding by the rules a nation has set for itself, rules that provide both order and relief from chaos.

In some cultures, red is a taboo color. Nevertheless, we all agree to stop at red lights. We agree to stand in line and not push our way forward as is done in many places.

Amish, Mennonites and Hasidim all pay their taxes.

These are examples of integrating into a society. There are thousands of others. To demand assimilation is a recipe for disaster.

Ah, but that assumes that you can stand the idea of having these people looking different and eating different and doing things differently, and being an orderly part of your society.

Some people simply can’t cope.

Not only Tea Party types. I’ve had some conversations with people who would define themselves as quite progressive, who get genuinely agitated about the Hasidim.