Abstract

What is meant by community? Is there a balance between equality, integration and diversity? Does the idea of identity undermine community cohesion?

Identity, Ethnic Diversity and Community Cohesion considers these questions and explores the concept of identity and how its different meanings and interpretations impact upon community policy. The book brings together the ideas and perspectives of leading academics, policymakers, think-tank representatives, and community workers, offering a cutting-edge and interprofessional approach to the key debates.

Other key features include:

- strong links between theory, practice and policy

- up-to-date analysis of contemporary policy issues

- author commentaries, 'reflections' on key themes, and case studies that illustrate the relevance of research to 'real life'

- a leading group of editors and authors - the ESRC Identities Programme and the Runnymede Trust represent a wealth of research and policymaking experience.

This original and innovative book makes a distinctive contribution to debates about identity, ethnicity and community cohesion. It is of interest to those studying social policy, community studies, politics and sociology as well as being relevant for policymakers, researchers and those working in the public sector.

Margaret Wetherell is Professor of Social Psychology at the Open University and Director of the ESRC Identities and Social Action Programme. Michelynn Laflèche, Director of the Runnymede Trust, has headed the Trust's work programme and strategic policy direction since 2001. Robert Berkeley, a sociologist with a PhD from Trinity College, Oxford, is Deputy Director of the Runnymede Trust.