Why is "diversity" automatically seen as being a "good thing"?

I mean, I can understand why biodiversity is important, but I'm speaking generally here. Would the world really end if everyone were basically the same, or at least similar in all the major attributes (like height, weight, intelligence)?

Update: A few people have mentioned the importance of genetic diversity, and yes, I agree with that, I agree that a case can be made for its importance, but I was thinking more along the lines of diversity in general, as a concept. People seem to just lazily assume it to be a "good thing", and very few seem to question whether, for example (and this is just an example), a diverse workplace is inherently good. Why is that? Why the unquestioning acceptance of an idea that hasn't really even been defined properly?

This page is a permanent link to the reply below and its nested replies. See all post replies »

TinyViolins · 31-35, M

My initial inclination is that in a group dynamic, you would want to avoid groupthink decisions that can prove to be detrimental or have unforeseen consequences. It's less about having a quota or filling boxes on a checklist, but about making sure that you are hearing different perspectives in order to produce better outcomes.

But because it is often framed as a matter of race or representation, I also think an added benefit is that having a diverse atmosphere allows these places to attract a wider pool of talent. Few women want to be the only female in a workplace full of males. You can make the same argument for people of different minority groups. Because unfortunately people don't get to see your heart and mind first, they only see your face and your body, and being categorized against your will is simply not a good feeling. A diverse environment acts as a buffer against that.