Integration into diversity theory. Renewing – once again – assimilation theory

Richard Alba has been at the forefront of renewing classical
assimilation theory based on empirical data on post-1960s
migrants in the US. He focused on the assimilation of migrant
groups into the dominant non-Hispanic white majority group.
This article − once again − rethinks assimilation theory. I argue
that the new demographic reality in majority–minority cities in
Europe and North America necessitates a new research direction,
entailing the development of a novel theoretical framework and
partially new research tools. Not only has the relative size of the
majority group decreased, but shifting positions of power are also
challenging us to rethink assimilation frameworks. I propose to
look at present-day processes of integration and assimilation
more as multi-directional. Everyone (including the former majority
group) integrates into the ethnically and racially diverse urban
context. I outline the contours of a new theoretical framework:
Integration into Diversity (ID) Theory. This article focuses on how
members of the former majority group integrate into the diverse
city context. Based on their diversity attitudes and diversity
practices, I analyse how their ID positions relate to socioeconomic
outcomes, the quality of inter-ethnic relations and
feelings of belonging and safety.