Author Description

Identity, Community, and Pluralism in American Life is an anthology of primary source readings which explores the cultural diversity and social pluralism in American life. The principal themes include the formation of group and communal identities, the position of various groups in the American social structure, and the interrelationships of the people of the United States within the framework of a common public life. The readings are drawn from a variety of sources including fiction, poetry, journalism, biography, autobiography, and memoirs, as well as from academic disciplines. Each of the eleven chapters is preceded by a context-setting introduction, and each selection includes a brief introduction explaining its significance and its relationship to other selections. Intended for use as a core text for undergraduate courses that explore diversity and pluralism, this text provides the basis for a continuing dialogue and inquiry into American life.