The Cartoon Affair and the Question of Cultural Diversity in Denmark

Abstract

This article relates the Danish cartoon affair to the question of cultural diversity. The argument is that the Danish position on cultural diversity constitutes a paradox between multiculturalism and assimilation, which reflects tensions between notions of equality and difference. The cartoon affair illustrates the tensions that follow when difference becomes reality. In this way, the cartoon affair both expresses tensions in attitudes towards multiculturalism in Denmark and offers new formulations on and conditions for considering the question of multiculturalism. The cartoon affair and its aftermath thus reflect the frictions that accompany the process of integrating immigrants in Danish society.