Unity in diversity? Canadian perceptions of the relationship between multiculturalism and national unit

Within a theoretical framework of Jurgen Habermas's theory of communicative action, this study analyzes Canadian perceptions of the relationship between multiculturalism and Canadian unity in the 1990's. Do Canadians perceive multiculturalism to be a builder of "unity in diversity" or to be divisive? Through what means is multiculturalism perceived to unite or to divide? Is there a relationship between the perception that multiculturalism is a builder of "unity in diversity" and an orientation to communicative action?;The data base is comprised of the responses given by a probability sample of Canadians (N = 3,325) to a telephone survey in which they were asked a broad range of questions regarding their attitudes toward multiculturalism. The survey was conducted by The Angus Reid Group for Multiculturalism and Citizenship Canada during the summer of 1991.;Findings suggest that: (1) a substantial majority of Canadians perceive multiculturalism to be a builder of "unity in diversity;" (2) a perception that multiculturalism is a builder of "unity in diversity" is positively correlated with an orientation to communicative action; (3) support for cultural, ethnic and racial diversity; attachment to Canada; support for equality; the perceived importance of shared values and of shared Canadian citizenship, are directly related to a perception that multiculturalism is a builder of "unity in diversity," and also to an orientation to communicative action.