Both unity and uniformity can be used to describe a unified group of people. The terms are not the same; they bespeak two differing types of unification. In particular, they address the mechanism by which unification occurs.
First, some definitions (source: Merriam-Webster)…
unity
1 a : the quality or state of not being multiple: oneness
2 a : a condition of harmony: accord
3 a : the quality or state of being made one: unification
4 a : a totality of related parts : an entity that is a complex or systematic whole
uniformity
1 : the quality or state of being uniform
uniform
1 : having always the same form, manner, or degree : not varying or variable
2 : consistent in conduct or opinion
3 : of the same form with others : conforming to one rule or mode : consonant
4 : presenting an unvaried appearance of surface, pattern, or color
Unity is unification based on agreement. Uniformity is unification based on similarity.
One uses harmony of opinion to form a consensus which is agreeable within a group, without sacrificing the uniqueness of each member. The other harmonizes all members of the group by destroying the uniqueness of each member and forcing all to conform to a single pattern.
One adds members to the group as they are, accepting those differences that do not destroy the ability of the group to stand behind the thing that brought them together. The other adds members to the group by destroying all diversity, whether at the point a new member is added or progressively over time.
Which unification does your group strive for?
Tags: sociology, uniformity, unity