Courts, Pluralism and Law in the Everyday: Food, Clothing and Days of Rest

This book explores the relationship between legal systems and cultural identities by examining the everyday judicial experience in four multicultural jurisdictions. It looks at the intersection between choices based on ethnic origin, tradition, culture, religion, or taste and constitutional rights such as religious liberty and freedom of expression. The book considers the places where diversity is most apparent and the choices that are not based on religious precepts but on personal philosophy. It will be of interest to researchers, academics, and policy-makers working in the areas of constitutional law, law and cultural diversity, human rights, minority rights, and discrimination law.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate interplay between legal systems and cultural identities, shedding light on the diverse judicial experiences across four multicultural jurisdictions. As societies, courts, and parliaments grapple with the growing prevalence of cases involving cultural pluralism, the legal landscape has been profoundly impacted. The headlines are often dominated by contentious disputes that revolve around challenges to fundamental rights and principles, particularly those that may be threatened by certain religious or cultural practices. These complex issues raise profound questions about the compatibility between cultural and religious traditions and constitutional values. However, it is important to recognize that much of the interaction between law and cultural pluralism extends beyond these headline-grabbing disputes. It encompasses the everyday aspects of life, including food, clothing, and days of rest, which are deeply intertwined with ethnic origin, tradition, culture, religion, and personal preferences.

In this volume, the authors examine the intersection between these choices and constitutional rights such as religious liberty and freedom of expression. They seek to understand how the state legal system addresses these issues and when non-mainstreaming behaviors are accommodated. The book takes a close look at the places where cultural diversity is most evident and also considers the choices that are not solely driven by religious precepts but rather by personal philosophical beliefs.

The study encompasses four legal systems: the United States of America, Canada, France, and Italy. By exploring similarities and differences in their approaches to cultural diversity, the book provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics at play. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise when diverse communities come together within the framework of legal systems.

This book is of immense interest to researchers, academics, and policy-makers engaged in the fields of constitutional law, law and cultural diversity, human rights, minority rights, and social justice. It offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between law and cultural identities, paving the way for further research and dialogue in this critical area.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032403670