Ethics, categories and identity: counting on quantification. Ethnicity in Australian history

In: Systems research and behavioral science: the official journal of the International Federation for Systems Research, Volume 25, Issue 2, p. 215-224

Abstract

AbstractDrawing on some of van Gigch's (2003) critiques in regard to quantification in the social sciences, this paper explores the notion of '98% British' that has underpinned analysis of migration and ethnicity in Australia. Historical data are used to suggest some alternate pictures and understandings of Australia in the 20th and 21st centuries. These alternate understandings belie the dominant frameworks of policy and analysis to date but begin to suggest alternatives such as the seeking out of peaceable histories in the presence of diversity rather than the predominant focus on conflict. In conclusion the ethical framework developed by C. West Churchman and elaborated on by van Gigch (2006) are employed as tools to consider the moral ramifications of the lack of critique of the '98% British' mythology. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.