In elementary school Social Studies, I learned about cultural differences between the US and Canada. Because we were only 9 years old , the teachers used little words and images that we could understand.
The United States of America was described as a "Melting Pot", and I envisioned a great big soup pot,where everyone jumped in and merrily bubbled away, each picking up the flavor of the other, to make a hearty soup.
Canada was described as a "Mosiac", kind of a patchwork quilt, knitted together with each square both unique and similar.
As a child, conjured images of both were appealing.Happy little countries, everyone getting along.
As an adult,I know it's not that simple, but I prefer Canada's cultural vision.It makes more sense to me.
Unless you are of First Nations Heritage in either country, our ancestors came from somewhere else, for whatever reason. With them, they brought their own cultural experience.Some things changed, some evolved and some things won't change. Period. That's why I prefer Canada's vision. It's realistic. And obtainable.
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I agree. The "melting pot" idea has turned into "multiculturalism" which allows protected classes and forces one culture upon another.
I have no problem with living among people of various ethnic origins or in a culturally diverse society. I think the problems stem when those cultures are not allowed to thrive and develop on their own and are thrust upon and forced to accomodate one another to the point of interference and disruption. This serves to further divide rather than encourage harmony and peaceful coexistance.
Let's say for the sake of argument that you're pizza and I'm mashed potatoes. Both are good on their own. They may even be good on the same plate together. But mix them up in a bowl and it's a totally different story, isn't it?
Yes. Brilliantly put.
Tha major problem with the "patchwork" model is that the patches are of different sizes. Some of the patches will use government force to impose their will on the smaller ones. A good example is the hijacking of the federal government by the Quebeqers (sic?) and the language laws. Try posting a business sign in English in Quebec. Another problem Leonidas has with the Canadian model is the widespread supression of free speech as evidenced by the hate crime prosecutions. Add to this the law abiding citizen's lack of the right to bear arms and Leonidas finds Canada a good place to visit but not a great place to live.
ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ
No wonder you are out sailing the 7 seas.Having nowhere else that is perfect you have created your own country. I am envious.
I agree that no system or model will work in reality like it does in theory, lobby and special interest groups often get "oiled" first.
Language laws do not effect us much here,in Alberta only on our cereal boxes.It is true that posting an Englis sign in Quebec can get you in alot of trouble. I am one Canadian that has no interest in having Quebec stay in confederation if they don't want to. Hopefully our new government will not jump thru hoops for separatists.
I fully support Canada's hate laws.
Gun regs... oh man... only in canada.
No wonder you are out sailing the 7 seas.Having nowhere else that is perfect you have created your own country. I am envious.
I agree that no system or model will work in reality like it does in theory, lobby and special interest groups often get "oiled" first.
Language laws do not effect us much here,in Alberta only on our cereal boxes.It is true that posting an Englis sign in Quebec can get you in alot of trouble. I am one Canadian that has no interest in having Quebec stay in confederation if they don't want to. Hopefully our new government will not jump thru hoops for separatists.
I fully support Canada's hate laws.
Gun regs... oh man... only in canada.
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