Full Idea
Liberals need to replace the idea of 'benign neglect', and recognise the central role of nation-building in a democracy. …This means promoting a common language, and equal access to institutions operating in that language.
Gist of Idea
Liberals need more than freedom; they must build a nation, through a language and institutions
Source
Will Kymlicka (Contemporary Political Philosophy (2nd edn) [2002], 8.3)
Book Reference
Kymlicka,Will: 'Contemporary Political Philosophy (2nd ed)' [OUP 2002], p.347
A Reaction
'Benign neglect' is non-interference with citizens' lives. Obviously the institutions include education, but is a state health service implied? Can equal access by guaranteed to private institutions?
Related Idea
Idea 23389 Why shouldn't national minorities have their own right to nation-build? [Kymlicka]