Identity construction processes and challenges of analytical anti-essentialism

Abstract

The understanding of present social and political tensions generates a renewed interest in the study of identity construction processes. However, the concept of "identity", despite its wide presence in the public discourses, remains profoundly affected by ambiguity in terms of its definition. This limits its analytical usage and hinders the dissemination of the findings of scientific research that could contribute to creating informed debates in the public domain. The present paper, based on the review of existing studies, argues for a conceptualization of identity that defines it as a multidimensional process. The theoretical discussion concerning the main mechanisms of identity construction leads us to propose five precautions which should be taken into account when analysing the relation between identity categories and social patterns. Finally, we reflect on the necessity of combining analytical anti-essentialism with the study of everyday essentialisms and their implications.