Conclusion: The Return of Peoples

Abstract

In this conclusion, I identify some of the vexing philosophical questions that have been addressed by the contributors to this volume in their chapters, although sometimes in an indirect way. They all relate to the issue of collective entities such as national minorities as the subject of recognition. Must we or should we recognize collective entities? I wish to stress the fact that we have been very recently witnessing a change in the discussion of recognition issues. After the first essays written by Taylor (1992), Tully (1995) and Kymlicka (1995), the literature on the subject of recognition has progressively shifted away from the problem of accommodating peoples. The focus has progressively moved in the direction of multiculturalist and immigration policies. The targets of recognition policies have increasingly been associated with minority groups and not entire peoples. In the more recent times, peoples have been progressively making a comeback and have once again become an issue of concern. However, this return is very far from being uncontroversial. So let me dwell on some of the problems that it entails.