Immigration – Part 2 – Partial Assimilation
Endemic populations are often content with partial assimilation. Immigrants could adopt the dress, learn the language and mirror the customs and ways of the local population – then practice their religion, speak their native language and revert to their customs when at home.
But isn’t this a little hypocritical? False?
Is it a way of not expecting people to give up their culture or religion but to make the effort to fit in with the prevailing culture?
Endemic populations often expect some sign of gratitude for ‘allowing’ these immigrants to come and live in their country. They feel that immigrants should not only obey the law of the land but also follow the unwritten rules.
Some immigrants resent this obligation.
Is it right that an immigrant should have to give up deeply held beliefs and values in order to integrate?
Should we allow religious schools? Temples and mosques? Shariah law? There are strong views either way.
Many feel that immigrants should fully integrate into society even if they then practice their religion and culture in private.
Does it push many immigrants into being more extreme than they otherwise might be?
Is partial assimilation an answer?