The imperative of integrative pluralist constitutionalism: Going beyond formal equality, eschewing rights, and accommodation of differences in Singapore

Publication Type

Book Chapter

Version

acceptedVersion

Publication Date

4-2019

Abstract

Pluralism is a fact of life and a way of life in Singapore. Race, religion, and language are the most constitutionally relevant types of plurality. Plurality in fact is self-evident, and plurality in norm an organising principle of how society is governed, laws are made, and policies are designed. A result of its transformation from a colonial trading port to a modern economy and a cosmopolitan society, pluralism is reflected in the country’s racial make-up and the fabric of society. This harmonious diversity is sustained as a facet of pragmatic governance. From a law and order perspective, pluralism is maintained and reinforced by the strict policing of ethnic markers of race, religion, and language, reflecting a state of affairs that views diversity as a source of inherent vulnerability even as Singapore and Singaporeans seem to embrace the diversity.

Keywords

Pluralism, multiracialism, Singapore, race, religion, constitution, Malays, inclusive citizenship, political representation, racial minorities

Discipline

Asian Studies | Constitutional Law | Election Law | Race and Ethnicity | Religion Law

Publication

Pluralist constitutions in Southeast Asia

Editor

Jaclyn L. Neo & Bui Ngoc Son

First Page

51

Last Page

82

ISBN

9781509920471

Publisher

Hart Publishing

City or Country

Oxford

Copyright Owner and License

Authors

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