Diversity Governance and Common Values. A study based on the Bouchard-Taylor ReportIn line with the proclaimed failure of multiculturalism and with the rise in resistance to difference politics, the discourse of ‘common values’ has become of increasing importance in public discourses as well as integration programs and policies. The willingness to govern diversity by means of ‘common values’ now prevails. Can this approach be compatible with the quest for a pluralistic integration, one that is hospitable to religious, cultural and value pluralism? The presentation will start by framing this question theoretically, thus bringing out three models – and great moments – regarding public management of diversity: i.e. tolerance, recognition and governance, successively. This study will then be replaced within the practical context of the Quebecer controversy over ‘reasonable accommodation’. Based on an analysis of the Bouchard-Taylor Report (2008), this second part will focus on the tensions between some recommendations in favor of pluralistic integration, or even integrative pluralism on the one hand, and the use of a language of ‘common values’ on the other hand.
