This chapter sets out a detailed theoretical background on multiculturalism, egalitarianism and assimilationism for the discussion that will follow about the best ways to accommodate national minorities. A brand-new legal framework tailored to the peculiarities of Turkey and its Kurdish minority is clearly needed. This chapter gives a balanced picture of the theoretical discussions that could inform such a legal system. By focusing on these theoretical discussions, the chapter also explores the general weaknesses of the theory of multiculturalism and the relationship of those weaknesses to its practical failure in Turkey. In doing so, it argues that, while everyone is free to retain diversity in their culture and lifestyle, this diversity does not justify the perpetuation of any ethnic prejudices; nor should it encourage the development or strengthening of rigid boundaries between ethnic groups. In conclusion, the chapter explores the question as to whether it is really possible to recognize ethnicity as a legitimate justification for differentiated rights without either perpetuating and encouraging ethnic polarization or creating the kinds of further inequalities experienced by the Kurds in Turkey.