Central American Consciousness

I've previously discussed multiculturalism as a nebulous, but still somewhat dangerous threat. While opposing this subversive movement, one must also justify the existence of a centralized cultural consciousness. Proceeding with this argument, I'll assume an obvious counter to multiculturalism; that its' implicit acceptance of cultural and moral relativism forces one to overlook clear violations of human dignity and value. Multiculturalism has become entangled with unflinching tolerance, the kind that doesn't upbraid the overt second-class status of women in Arab countries. This post will argue that a central American narrative is an essential component of a stable society and that a multicultural movement undermines this solidarity.

What exactly is a central narrative? Is it possible to formulate one given the disparate experiences of America's distinct groups, especially whites and blacks? As I stated in the link above, this is a difficult hurdle given the subjugation of certain groups. Nonetheless, our focus resides solely in the present, a period where the founding principles have been realized. Further, only a defiant collectivist would view traditions and achievements as the sole possession of the acting party's collective.

So what purpose does a central narrative serve? On this site I've advocated individualism, especially in the context of merit. Yet, our society is inevitably comprised of social networks and relationships that buttress the individual's ability and potential. As a result, it's imperative that a central theme can inspire achievement and allow differing individuals to find common ground. Fortunately, the Founding Fathers articulated a set of principles that define a just society, one where equality is a given right. This provides the basis of our national vision. With an understanding that America's strength lies primarily in our freedoms, generations of youth become Ellis Island immigrants, eager to find success in the "land of opportunity". These founding maxims, summed up concisely with "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" are sustained by an ever evolving set of iconic cultural institutions, spanning entertainment, politics, military, and sports.

The sharing of culture, especially in the context of greatness, allows disparate people to connect. The breathtaking athleticism of Michael Jordan, the austere demeanor of Abe Lincoln, the bravery of American soldiers, and the beauty of Marilyn Monroe connect each of us to common history, a common narrative that's readily recalled by any person. Without a common theme to unite us, without cultural symbols to represent the distinctly American experience, how can social stability be attained?

By advocating the glorification of native culture over the celebration of nationhood, multiculturalism creates intensely separated groups. Groups identify solely with their ethnic peers and overlap minimally with members of other groups. Multiculturalism inevitably allows disjointed groups to emerge, groups eager to replace an eclectic sort of shared American icons with niche persons and events. American life becomes subordinate to the ethnic life. This leads to increased racialism, which leads to identity politics and a removal from the American principles I previously mentioned. Like it or not, this country is a collection of different racial and ethnic groups. I'm unsure if white/NAM cooperation, outside of whites yielding to retribution demands, is even possible. But nonetheless, social stability is only available to a cohesive structure, not a tossed salad of collectives setting the rigid bounds of their group. A common paradigm must exist to ensure racial tension is attenuated.

Addendum: TUJ posted this comment:

Whites don't need to worry about how to incorporate NAMs into the national culture or even accept them as Americans. We just need to manage them properly and keep them from causing too much trouble.

I somewhat agree. However, while it's clear the differing genetics of white and NAM populations preclude totally peaceful coexistence, we should still strive to reduce racial enmity. Sociologically based racial tension, such as anger concerning slavery, can still be reduced through dissemination of traditional American values. NAM bitterness encompasses almost the entire cause of racial unrest. By following the above guidelines, we not only imbue white citizens with a justified patriotism, but also formulate a narrative designed to quell NAM racialism.

Will NAMs ever fulfill the potential offered to them by the "American Dream"? No because I deem the achievement gap to be almost intractable at this point. But as slaveholders did with Christianity, we need a directive to stop them from being dysfunctional. In the end, it's probable the only viable resolutions are eugenics based programs (like sterilization, nothing more intrusive) and low immigration. Nonetheless, we should support the above guidelines in conjunction with these more efficient methods of managing NAM misbehavior.