Diversity

1578 Words4 Pages

People are not alike. Everyone is different. This essay will start by giving a detailed description of what diversity is and how it applies in today's modern society. Although sometimes linked to equality and used interchangeably, the terms ‘equality’ and ‘diversity’ are not the same. It will therefore be necessary to define diversity. For the purpose of this essay diversity will be used in the societal context, the word societal will be used in relation to human society and its members, social institutions, societal evolution, societal forces and social legislation. The essay will take a very brief look firstly at the history of diversity but will focus mainly on the current perspective. The essay will follow on by giving several in-depth examples of how diversity is applied and works in today's modern society. The essay will then go on to critically discuss, with examples, where these have led to stigmatisation and discrimination within parts of society. The assignment will end with an overall summing up of the essay. Diversity literally means difference and these differences can be seen in all aspects of society. The word diversity is used in many places in the English language, for example it can be used in science and technology, economics and law. In society we use the word diversity to highlight differences. Diversity refers not only to differences of culture and ethnicity but also to differences in gender and sexual orientation, to psychological and cognitive differences between people, to differences in political values and beliefs (Hallet, 1996) The terms diversity and difference can carry deeper connotations. To fully understand these it is important to know that the terms come from particular contexts. The argum... ... middle of paper ... ...UK the British military immediately recognise civil partnerships and granted married gay couples exactly the same rights to allowances and housing as straight couples. The Royal Navy has conducted civil partnership ceremonies on ships and the British Army has held gay marriage celebrations in barracks. Discrimination and stigmatization has also been associated with health. For example the AIDS virus carries a great deal of stigma and discrimination that exists worldwide this. This discrimination also occurs alongside racism, homophobia, and misogyny. All the stigmas are associated with gay people, prostitution or drug use. Such misinformation makes it difficult for people to manage their illness or issues and stop governments taking action. It can also deter people from accessing healthcare treatments and getting the right advice for themselves and their families.

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