The Public Services in a Plural Society

Abstract

The presumed objective of constitutional arrangements in a plural society is ultimately to create a community out of diverse ethnic groups. It is, however, unlikely that a genuine political consensus will be attained in one step: there will probably be an intermediate stage of what may be termed political acquiescence. A period of more or less passive acceptance of an evolving pattern is to be expected, during which there will be many uncertainties and a widespread feeling that the recognition of the interests of particular groups is less than adequate — whether they are minorities or the majority. Indeed, this may be the best that can be expected and it is particularly important that at this stage the management of fears and grievances should be such that the whole operation is not soured.