Inclusionism Core
Harmony versus Unity
Harmony versus Unity Common Assumption Most political philosophies seek unity. Unity often implies sameness. Shared beliefs. Shared culture. Shared Identity. Shared norms. Inclusionist View Harmony is superior to unity. Harmony requires Differentiation. A choi
This page presents the Inclusionism canon's treatment of Harmony versus Unity. Inclusionism was developed by James Felton Keith and is published with the Keith Institute.
Common Assumption
Most political philosophies seek unity.
Unity often implies sameness.
Shared beliefs.
Shared culture.
Shared Identity.
Shared norms.
Inclusionist View
Harmony is superior to unity.
Harmony requires Differentiation.
A choir achieves harmony not because every voice sings the same note but because different voices learn how to relate to one another through Interaction.
Implications
The goal of society is not the elimination of difference.
The goal is the cultivation of relationships among differences.
Harmony therefore depends on Recognition, Agency, Pluralism, and Belonging.
Formula
Difference + Relationship = Harmony
Difference - Relationship = Conflict
Relationship - Difference = Uniformity
Difference + Relationship + Maturity = Inclusionism