But what does Multicultural actually mean? On a number of threads I have tried to explore the characteristics that make Western societies stand out, and elaborate my own views on what it means, how we got here, and why we need to be ready to defend it. My conclusions thus far have been:
1. Being Western means two things more than anything else - the individual is considered to be sovereign and of value, and we venerate the truth. The late Sir Roger Scruton commented that European civilisation is based on the Christian concepts of repentance, forgiveness, and natural justice.
2. We hold some things as truths, such as the idea that everyone has value, and have legal and scientific mechanisms to update and refine other things.
3. Western is not related to geography, race, or religion. It is things such as the rule of law, equity before the law, everyone having the same rights, and having things like political representation and a free media, with protected freedom of speech.
4. Every stable system depends on negative feedback, and so does society. Society needs corrective mechanisms such as politicians losing votes or being aware of that possibility, legal system that limit the powers of others and demand that they act reasonably or face consequences, and public scrutiny.
5. If any groups within society are treated differently then it can only cause problems.
Perhaps we want society to be multi racial and multi faith, but with shared core values?