The Diversity Context of Human Resource Management
This chapter reviews the literature and theory on diversity, the diversity context, and diversity in human resource management. First, a four-stage model of the evolution of diversity management is presented, detailing the problem-specific, integrated, culture change and inclusive workplace stages of diversity management. Diversity management is shown to have demographic, economic, and political considerations because it focuses on managing individual differences. Second, models of diversity management processes are presented. Third, diversity theories and frameworks from strategic management through stakeholder approach, social categorization, social identity theory, and social capital theory are discussed. National- and international-level influences on diversity management, including the impact of religion, are discussed. Finally, data on recruitment action programs are presented to demonstrate the varied uptake of particular diversity practices in selected countries. Opportunities for further research are identified, implications for practice are highlighted, and conclusions are drawn.