1. Diversity and Differentiation A linguistic diversion

2. Diversity diverse – adjective. widely varied. diversity – noun. the state of being diverse > a diverse range; a variety. diversify – verb. make or become more diverse > (of a company) enlarge or vary its range of products or field of operation.

3. Differentiation different – adjective. not the same as another; different in nature, form or quality. differentia – noun. a distinguishing mark or characteristic. differentiate – verb. 1 recognise or identify as different; distinguish > cause to appear different or distinct. 2 technical make or become different in the course of growth or development. DERIVATIVES differentiation n. differentiator n.

4. Distinguishing between diversity and differentiation Primary emphases Diversity – passive, a state of being, achieved, but not necessarily static Differentiation – active, derived from the verb to differentiate, ongoing

5. Associated meanings Diversity Dissimilarity, variety, difference, multiplicity, creativity, divergence, biodiversity, multiculturalism, mixed

6. Associated meanings Differentiation Variation, distinction, discrimination, discernment, judgement, perception/ appreciation of difference To distinguish, recognise, identify, separate, sift, draw a fine line, separate chaff from wheat

7. Positive and negative implications Diversity + pole - pole Non-hierarchicalIndiscriminate Internal developmentAbsence of value judgements Natural / organic evolutionLevelling Postmodern

8. Positive and negative implications Differentiation + pole - pole Hierarchies of value/ distinctions of purpose Hierarchical Judgement – making appropriate distinctions Inequality Goal / purpose drivenState control/ interference TraditionalExternal imposition

9. Conclusion Both words have negative and positive meanings or implications associated with them Diversity may be understood as a desired or achieved state characterised by variety Differentiation may be understood as the purposeful means to achieve the desired state of diversity through the active exercise of judgement