Multiculturalism is not à la mode nowadays. It is attacked by both right-wing populists and mainstream politicians and leaders of liberal democracies. Indeed conflicts surrounding cultural diversity and recognition are among the most salient issues in contemporary societies. Should liberal democracies recognise specific cultural rights of minorities? If so should they grant rights only to indigenous national minorities or also to immigrants? Is such a recognition compatible with the basic liberal principle of state neutrality? Practical questions of this kind are in quest of sound theoretical foundations. Alan Pattenâs approach to multiculturalism developed in Equal Recognition (2014) is the most recent and prominent example of such an effort. Considered âœthe most important contribution to the philosophy of cultural diversity since Will Kymlickaâs Multicultural Citizenshipâ Pattenâs work elaborates new and original conceptions of culture and liberal neutrality. It reasserts the case in favour of liberal multiculturalism and applies its theoretical framework to concrete contemporary issues such as language rights federalism secession and immigrant integration. This collection presents a critical review of Pattenâs approach to cultural plurality. The critics question the overall normative strategy of Equal Recognition its account of neutrality especially with regards to language rights its assumptions about democracy and finally its relevance to public policy debates. It will be of interest to political scientists philosophers and legal theorists and will inspire students and politicians alike. This book was originally published as a special issue of the Critical Review of International Social and Political Philosophy. . Language: English