Identity System

An Identity System is a social system that defines and maintains individual or collective self-understanding through distinguishing characteristics and boundary mechanisms.

• AKA: Identity Framework, Identity Structure, Identification System, Identity Formation System, Identity Construction System.
• Context:
  • It can typically establish in-group and out-group distinction]]s through identity markers.
  • It can typically provide meaning, belonging, and social location for identity bearers.
  • It can typically maintain continuity while adapting to social change and external pressures.
  • It can often intersect with other identity systems creating multiple identities and hybrid identities.
  • It can often generate identity conflicts when competing claims arise.
  • It can often be mobilized for political action, resource claims, and social movements.
  • It can range from being an Individual Identity System to being a Collective Identity System, depending on its bearer type.
  • It can range from being an Ascribed Identity System to being an Achieved Identity System, depending on its acquisition mode.
  • It can range from being a Fixed Identity System to being a Fluid Identity System, depending on its change potential.
  • It can range from being a Exclusive Identity System to being an Inclusive Identity System, depending on its boundary permeability.
  • ...
• Examples:
  • Cultural Identity Systems, such as:
    • National Identity System defining citizen membership.
    • Ethnic Identity System based on ancestry and heritage.
    • Religious Identity System through faith community.
  • Social Identity Systems, such as:
    • Class Identity System reflecting economic position.
    • Gender Identity System expressing gender understanding.
    • Professional Identity System from occupational role.
  • Political Identity Systems, such as:
    • Ideological Identity System based on political beliefs.
    • Partisan Identity System through party affiliation.
    • Movement Identity System via activist participation.
  • ...
• Counter-Examples:
  • Role System, which defines functional positions rather than identity.
  • Status System, which ranks social positions without identity formation.
  • Classification System, which categorizes without subjective identification.
• See: Social System, Cultural Identity System, Social Identity Theory, Identity Politics, Boundary Maintenance, Self-Concept, Collective Identity, Identity Formation Process, Intersectionality Theory, Recognition Theory.

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