This paper discusses the issue of pluralism and British society. The following topics are covered: (1) why it is desirable for Great Britain to be a pluralistic society; (2) how far the needs of minority communities can be accommodated without threatening British status quo; (3) what happens in other countries; and (4) what lessons can be learned from these experiences. The major political and intellectual impediments to more judicious consideration of the available policies of cultural diversity in contemporary British society are explored. The meaning of cultural diversity is discussed and then applied to the situation in Great Britain. Political opportunists, both antiracist activists and defenders of a more limited acknowledgement of cultural diversity, are criticized, as is organized religion. The extent to which Great Britain can become structurally pluralistic is discussed. (JS)