Mere Diversity or Genuine Inclusion: Moral and Pragmatic Arguments for an Inclusive Workplace

Thesis advisor: Cherie McGillWe often hear about the value of a diverse society, workplace, classrooms, and so on, but what exactly do diversity and inclusion involve, and why do we value them? In this thesis, I will explore philosophical concepts of diversity as it relates to race and gender in the workplace. First, what, exactly, do these terms mean? What is the difference between ‘diversity’ and ‘inclusion’, and how are we to understand these concepts as they apply to institutions like the workplace? Secondly, why should we want diverse or inclusive institutions? Mission statements, for most organizations indicate a commitment to diversity. But, what’s valuable about diversity? Put differently, what is problematic about a lack of diversity in our institutions?Thesis (BA) — Boston College, 2018.Submitted to: Boston College. College of Arts and Sciences.Discipline: Departmental Honors.Discipline: Philosophy