This sociological perspective on multicultural education focuses on racial and cultural groups, but accents class and power correlates. The results of the civil rights movement took the nation to visions of integration, and when these faltered, to the recognition of diversity in the form of cultural pluralism, which nonetheless implies structural integration. Cultural pluralism as the focus of a solution for the problem of inequality has diverted attention from the need for structural change and access. In addition, cultural pluralism as a policy has encouraged multicultural education as a kind of cure-all for society's tensions and has served as a proof of commitment to democracy. At its best, multicultural education may create greater awareness and appreciation for people from all backgrounds, but it cannot effect the real changes needed to provide a just society. Nevertheless, if done correctly, it will have a more beneficial impact on education than did the previous focus on cultural pluralism alone. Multicultural education is the right thing to do, but it is only part of the enormous effort needed to achieve real equality. (Contains 5 references.) (SLD)