Publisher's Synopsis
How does participation work in a situation of cultural pluralism in terms of meeting pluralist needs? This is the major question on which the monograph focuses. This issue is analysed by investigating relationships between ethnic groups in a situation of pluralism. Specifically this monograph examines the relationships between the Negev Bedouin and the Israeli authorities. The Bedouin are a previously nomadic ethnic minority who have become sedentarised in spontaneous or planned settlements. Their participation in their relocation in Tel Malhata is the focus of this case study.;Within the debate around cultural and political pluralism, this research examines the concept of pluralist needs, embracing both ethnic and citizen needs, together with their definition in a context of discrimination, and creates methodological tools which are used to evaluate government policies and plans towards the ethnic minorities. The case study example of majority-minority relationships is analysed through the settlement planning process, focussing on the complexities of planning in a situation of conflicting needs. The role of participation in addressing ethnic and citizen needs is also examined to illustrate the complexities of meeting pluralist needs. The major conclusion points to the value of realising pluralist needs in planning and development schemes for ethnic minority groups. Such an approach would greatly ease the process of social change, while fostering the stability of the society as a whole.
