Final answer:
Multiculturalism and pluralism both involve the coexistence of different groups within a society, but multiculturalism emphasizes cultural diversity and the preservation of cultural traditions, while pluralism focuses on a broader range of diversities including political and ideological, and stresses mutual respect and integration.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distinction between multiculturalism and pluralism can be understood in various dimensions. Multiculturalism promotes the coexistence of different cultures within a society and encourages the preservation of cultural traditions. It's an orientation of support toward various cultures, emphasizing that an organization or society benefits from cultural diversity. Multiculturalists may argue that different cultural values, even those that diverge from Western norms, are important to preserve as they contribute to the collective identity of their members and can enrich the wider society.
On the other hand, pluralism generally refers to the diversity of opinions and beliefs and emphasizes mutual respect among diverse groups. It's often associated with the idea of a 'salad bowl' where various cultures retain their individual identities while contributing to the overall society. Cultural pluralism is when smaller groups maintain their unique cultural identities, and their practices are accepted by the wider culture, as long as they are consistent with broader laws and values.
It's worth noting that while pluralism includes cultural diversity, it also extends to political and ideological diversity, fostering an environment where different perspectives are exchanged and integrated.