For the government, our identity is almost equal to our (Dutch) Social-Fiscal number, or our Social Security number (eg, USA). That number contains some relevant information, like our name and birthdate (source).
Wikipedia: “[..] the Social Security number has become a de facto national identification number for taxation and other purposes.“
According to (social) media articles, (many or most) individuals think that our identity is important. I disagree. My 2019 blog: “My identity has never been much of an issue to me. I was – and am – just Me Myself I (see below).”
To some extent, our identity can be measured (eg, eye colour, F/M, height, skin colour, weight). Some of those physical traits are temporary (eg, age, height, weight). Social science also includes behavioural and other traits.
“Identity is the set of qualities, beliefs, personality traits, appearance, and/or expressions that characterize a person or a group. Identity emerges during childhood as children start to comprehend their self-concept, and it remains a consistent aspect throughout different stages of life. Identity is shaped by social and cultural factors and how others perceive and acknowledge one’s characteristics.” Note LO: marking in quote by me.
Wikipedia: Identity (social science)
The identity definition above is (very) generic and far from specific. I suppose that is also the problem with identity issues in media articles. Example: for most people, sexual identity is private; not public.
I suppose that people belonging to a majority will regard their identity different from a minority. Any majority brings power. This view might explain my 2019 remark: “My identity has never been much of an issue to me.”
Generally, any minority is powerless. Amplifying their minority message through (social) media may suggest having power. General election results in Europe and USA are evidence of them having lost the culture war (eg, Axios #2).
In my view, having power is (much) more important than having a shared identity. True power gives freedom. Imaginary power brings shackles. True power starts with philautia a.k.a. self-love.
Me Myself I (1980) by Joan Armatrading
artist, lyrics, video, Wiki-artist, Wiki-song
I sit here by myself
And you know I love it
You know I don’t want someone
To come pay a visit
I wanna be by myself
I came in this world alone
Me myself I
Note: all markings (bold, italic, underlining) by LO unless in quotes or stated otherwise.
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