TY  - CHAP
AB  - Purpose To discuss the problem of cultural imperialism as it relates to human rights and to provide a framework for applying human rights to Library and Information Services (LIS) so as to respect diverse worldviews.Methodology/approach The chapter is theoretical in nature but also draws out important practical implications. The problem is described and addressed using the approach of philosophical ethics emphasizing moral pluralism. Political and moral theories are compared and lessons drawn from them for LIS practice.Findings Drawing on the work of philosopher Jacques Maritain (1949) as well as contemporary human rights theory, an understanding of human rights as pluralistic and evolving practical principles is developed. Using Maritain’s conception of human rights as a set of common principles of action, guidelines for applying human rights in ways that avoid cultural imperialism are provided.Social implications The findings of this chapter should assist LIS professionals in understanding the relationship between human rights and cultural diversity. In addition, it gives professionals a framework for understanding and applying human rights in a ways that respects cultural diversity.Originality/value This chapter develops an original approach to applying human rights in a way that respects cultural diversity.
VL  - 41
SN  - 978-1-78635-057-2, 978-1-78635-058-9/0065-2830
DO  - 10.1108/S0065-283020160000041011
UR  - https://doi.org/10.1108/S0065-283020160000041011
AU  - Mathiesen Kay
PY  - 2016
Y1  - 2016/01/01
TI  - Human Rights without Cultural Imperialism
T2  - Perspectives on Libraries as Institutions of Human Rights and Social Justice
T3  - Advances in Librarianship
PB  - Emerald Group Publishing Limited
SP  - 265
EP  - 286
Y2  - 2024/04/25
ER  -