Pluralism and working in pluralistic environments

Pluralism

In general terms, pluralism implies the interrelationship between diverse groups. As a term, the same can also be used to represent a wide range of diverse views. In this text, I concern myself with pluralism, that is, its meaning and what working in a pluralistic environment means.

Pluralism & Working in a Pluralistic Environment

Literary, pluralism can be taken to denote 'more than one.' Hence at the organizational level, pluralism could simply mean that a given organization or entity embraces 'more than one' subcultures. Thus in a way, pluralism as a phrase is rather 'catch all' and towards that end, the same can be used as a philosophy that advocates for 'more than one' viewpoint. In passing, it is important to note that in a pluralistic environment, pluralism can be looked at from a number of angles. Thus in this case, we could have cultural pluralism, religious pluralism, ethical pluralism, moral pluralism etc.

According to Richard and Marcic (2008, 348), organizations are increasingly embracing pluralism as opposed to monoculture. Generally, though working in a pluralistic environment may at times be considered challenging for individuals lacking a certain level of tolerance, Richard and Marcic (2008, 348) are of the opinion that those organizations that adopt pluralism ideally "integrate into the organization the employees who otherwise would feel isolated and ignored." Hence in line with this statement, it can be noted that working in a pluralistic environment has a way of instilling a sense of belonging within an individual. In this case, there also exists an invitation (explicit or implicit) to individuals to express their diverse suggestions and ideas which could be based on any identity aspect including religious, moral or even cultural viewpoints. This invitation to express diverse ideas gives rise to enhanced creativity and participation. However, in a pluralistic environment, conflict is largely inevitable. Conflict in this case is brought about by possibly competing goals, interests as well as values of various pockets of stakeholders. However, to ensure that conflict does not get out of hand in a pluralistic environment, necessary practices as well as policies are adopted. These practices and policies include but are not limited to grievance and anti-discrimination policies. In a pluralistic environment, diversity is taken to further encompass a wider integration of differences. This is largely possible as in this case, legitimate and distinct differences co-existence is embraced. Also, collective as well as individual identities are maintained.