Sense of self (CLARKE)

Question 1

Giddens (1991) Modernity and Self-Identity

The traditional order

Answer 1

Self-identity is given (since lineage, social status, gender etc. are fixed)

Question 2

Giddens (1991) Modernity and Self-Identity

The post-traditional order

Answer 2

• Self-identity is chosen from lifestyle options (individuation)
• Self-identity is made through biography and body-work (self-actualisation)
• This is especially the case during ‘fateful moments’ e.g. freshers’ week
• The end point is not self-understanding but integrity – a coherent and therefore rewarding life history

Question 3

The broader debate on contemporary subjectivity

The modern (centred) subject

Answer 3

Singular (with one or two clear-cut roles)
Complete (seemingly natural and eternal)
Ageographical (unchanging across different spaces)
e.g. the housewife

Question 4

The broader debate on contemporary subjectivity

The postmodern (decentred) subject

Answer 4

Multiple
Incomplete (always becoming)
Geographical (constructed in relation to different spaces)
e.g. any of us

Question 5

Self-identity is given (since lineage, social status, gender etc. are fixed)

Answer 5

Giddens (1991) Modernity and Self-Identity

The traditional order

Question 6

• Self-identity is chosen from lifestyle options (individuation)
• Self-identity is made through biography and body-work (self-actualisation)
• This is especially the case during ‘fateful moments’ e.g. freshers’ week
• The end point is not self-understanding but integrity – a coherent and therefore rewarding life history

Answer 6

Giddens (1991) Modernity and Self-Identity

The post-traditional order