Conclusion: The Identity of Identity

Abstract

The word ‘identity’ suggests immutability, self-sameness, and permanency, while in fact it does what other words also do: it changes its meaning, now so rapidly that it is hard to keep track. ‘Conclusion: the identity of identity’ concludes that, on the individual level, identities have become a matter of negotiating and, as the need to do so arises, renegotiating your place, your purpose, and your presentation in everyday life. On the collective level, identities are fuzzy sets rather than clearly delineated groups. Yet, the assertion of, search for, and preoccupation with, identity keeps growing and invading ever more spheres of life. There are no indications that the identity wave is flattening.