We explain what diversity is and the types there are. Also, its importance and the characteristics of cultural, sexual diversity and more.
What is diversity?
Diversity is the existence of things varied and different from each other within a certain area or space. The term comes from the Latin language, from the word “diversities”, and refers to that which is diverse, varied, multiple, disparate or different.
The concept of diversity is applicable in many areas and refers to the differences that may exist between people animals, groups, things, opinions, choices, among many others. Within human beings there is cultural, ethnic, sexual, linguistic, ideological, religious diversity, among others.
See also: Identity
Types of diversity
- Biological diversity or biodiversity. It is about the variation and abundance of animal and plant species that inhabit an area or region.
- Ecosystem diversity. This is the set of ecosystems that make up planet Earth. In each type of ecosystem, a characteristic climate, relief, and animal and plant species prevail.
- Cultural diversity. It is about the variety of cultures that are related within a given geographical space. On certain occasions, social influence and pressure cause groups that hold cultural values that do not agree with those of the majority to be violated. In these cases, work must be done to guarantee the rights of all citizens and promote acceptance and respect for all cultural values. Cultural diversity encompasses political, ideological, religious diversity, among others.
- sexual diversity. It is about people's free choice about their sexual orientation. Sexual diversity involves respect for different sexual identities (such as homosexuals, bisexuals or transsexuals) and the importance of the rights of all individuals being respected.
- Functional diversity. It is about inclusion and respect for people who have different motor or intellectual abilities. This term seeks to replace concepts such as “disability” and end discrimination and exclusion.
- Linguistic diversity. It is about the number and variety of languages within a given geographic region or the entire world. There are areas of the planet with a great wealth and variety of languages, while in others one main language prevails.
- Genetic diversity. This is the variety of characteristics that organisms of the same species can have.
Importance of diversity
Diversity is a broad concept that crosses different aspects, both of the human being and of other organisms or objects.
As far as human beings are concerned, The concept of cultural diversity is fundamental which in turn includes others such as ethnic diversity and religious diversity.
cultural diversity allows to include and accept all customs and values that the human being was professing throughout evolution. In 2001 UNESCO proclaimed the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, in which it highlighted the importance of respect, dialogue and commitment between diverse cultures for the construction of a more equitable, inclusive world with a plurality of voices. Diversity within a society allows the coexistence of people with different opinions, political ideologies, customs, religions and genders.
On the other hand, the importance of diversity in nature is highlighted, which is what allows us to have rich and varied ecosystems. Furthermore, genetic diversity allowed the development and survival of species over time, which contributed to biodiversity.
References
- “Cultural diversity” in UNESCO.
- “Types of diversity” at Adecco Foundation.
- “What is diversity and inclusion?” in Global Diversity Practice.
- “Genetic diversity” on Wikipedia.
- “UNESCO Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity” at UNESCO.
