Definition of "pluralism" []

• The condition of being multiple or plural. (noun)
• A condition in which numerous distinct ethnic, religious, or cultural groups are present and tolerated within a society. (noun)
• The belief that such a condition is desirable or socially beneficial. (noun)
• Ecclesiastical The holding by one person of two or more positions or offices, especially two or more ecclesiastical benefices, at the same time. (noun)
• Philosophy The doctrine that reality is composed of many ultimate substances. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "Here I pick up a use of the word pluralism which is perhaps not all that common these days, but which was once, very properly, very significant in British political thought – think of theorists like Harold Laski."
• "These ideas are toxic to even the deepest pluralism because they begin from the premise and emotional commitment that pluralism is the enemy."
• "For one, it ought to be fairly clear that internal pluralism is much more contingent on the specific mix of views in the population."