Cultural Freedom

Abstract

Freedom is a big word in our world, but not one easily explained, since its uses relate to complex metaphysical questions as well as to important practical choices. In the context of multiculturalism in Canada, the word means "cultural freedom," a new practical freedom that must be distinguished from the old "positive" and "negative" meanings of freedom in practical political contexts. The account of liberal multiculturalism developed by the Canadian philosopher Will Kymlicka clarifies the meaning of cultural freedom, which is best understood by sharply separating Kymlicka's theoretical account of free choice from his practical recommendations about cultural recognition and accommodation. These recommendations show the dependence of multiculturalism on the growing power and responsibilities of human rights commissions and similar bureaucratic agencies.