Selective Multiculturalism? Symbols of Ethnic Identity and Core Values Theory

This paper is a retrospective critique of the sociological theory of Symbols of Ethnic Identity and Core Values developed by Jerzy Smolicz, and the social milieu in which it took place. The theory claimed to be based on the inductive, humanistic sociology approach of Florien Znaniecki. It was concerned with ascribing language and ideological values to the identity of students from migrant families in Australia. It proposed that some ethnic groups were more ‘language centred’ than others. This formed the basis for the promotion by Smolicz of the language and cultural rights of some ethnic groups above others. Alongside the development of the theory, Smolicz was deeply involved in multicultural politics and language policy debate in Australia. The development of theory was based on data that was weaker than one might expect and shaped by his engagement in radical political discourse. Smolicz’s dual contribution indicates a selective multiculturalism was at play.