Cultural myopia : a challenge to Spanish education

Abstract

This paper considers current thinking about intercultural attitudes in Spain. It attempts to demonstrate reasons why the Spanish approach to interculturalism, particularly in schools, has not been at the forefront of societal, governmental, or educational thinking. Until the 1980s Spain's emigration exceeded those entering the country. Today, trends have changed. Following a brief historical account of Spain's pluralistic cultural roots, contemporary views are debated concerning the impact of recent immigration, signalling the dangers of ignoring immigrants' needs and abilities within the community. It is argued by the writers that opportunities are being missed in education (and elsewhere) by the cultural myopia influencing Spanish schools and society. The increasing inspection, linguistically and culturally, is diminishing opportunities for the celebration of the wider cultural diversity that exists. This paper seeks to rouse those in education, whose predispositions lie in societal hierarchy and cultural introversion.