In recent years, the theory of pluralism has drawn extensive consideration and evaluation among various literary critiques in particular the dichotomy between pressure groups and public policy in Australia. Distinctly, Australia's various intercultural pressure groups have proved to be powerful agents of social integration contributing to the nations policymaking. However, key critiques do arise in terms of Australia as a plural state, primarily the tension between citizenship and power as such the ability of these groups to exert influence over local and national policymaking. Key questions arise therefore as to the functionality of pluralism within a state, in particular the role of various groups in the formation of policies, and the evolution of pluralism in variant forms. Whilst critiques consider multiculturalism and a common law state as being sufficient to the inclusion of diverse attitudes and views, some critiques urge for a move towards legal pluralism in particular the push for Sharia Law, has become a crux of the pluralism debate.
English: Table contrasting offers at sharia law an...
English: Table contrasting offers at sharia law an...
English: Type of contracts at sharia lawAustralia as a plural state makes concessions to minorities with different religions, cultures and traditions, under the policy of Multiculturalism. Laksiri Jayasuriya(2007) in her article ' The Political Foundations of Australia's Pluralist Society' examines the principles of equal citizenship and a commitment to the core values of Australian national identity. Correspondingly, Jayasuriya (2007) identifies the prominent role diversity in the form of cultural groups has played in the shift of Australia's public sphere from 'hardline assimilation' to now what is a multicultural state. Jayasuriya (2007) further claims that Australia's plural position and its attendant social policies have evolved effectively in response to social, political and economic circumstances. Whilst Jayasuriya (2007) argues that Australia, through its plural perspective has accommodated significant changes with the least amount of conflict and disruption, she also alleges that legislative enactment too must be...