Ethnizität und Kultur in multikulturellen Gesellschaften und im virtuellen Raum

Abstract

One of the distinguishing features postulated for European states is the ethnic, cultural and linguistic homogeneity of their citizens. This homogeneity, for both affected societies and individuals, is increasingly manifested as dysfunctional due to increasing migratory movements within Europe, immigration from non-European countries, regional aspirations for autonomy and, finally, the integration of European states into the European Union.

Against this backdrop and in the midst of a rapidly advancing internationalization, made possible for example by the use of the internet etc., the question of the relationship between citizenship and ethnic and cultural identity in Europe is raised urgently and in a new light: Should European states or the European Union apply a concept of constitutional patriotism in the future or a conception of multicultural nationalities, as Canada, a traditionally host state for immigrants, did in 1971? To what extent do the media play a role? Can they contribute to the development of an understanding between states that responds to multiculturalism in Europe?