Abstract

The paper explores the relation between multiculturalism and egalitarianism of opportunities, focusing on claims by minorities resulting from migrations. After considering some convergences between multiculturalism and egalitarianism of opportunities, the paper addresses their possible tensions. Firstly, egalitarianism of opportunities could require public agencies to promote the overcoming of certain traditional beliefs, what can contrast with the aim of preserving cultural traditions. Secondly, the politics of identity could undermine the solidarity among people that is a precondition for those policies needed to promote equality of opportunities. The author claims that in so far as multiculturalism and egalitarianism of opportunities are incompatible, multiculturalism should be rejected.