There Is No Such Thing as Cultural Identity

People are reclaiming cultural identities in response to globalization, but Fran\u00e7ois Jullien argues that this emphasis is a mistake. He suggests that cultures exist in relation to one another and are constantly mutating and transforming, and that there are no cultural identities, only 'resources' that are created in a certain space and available to all. This conceptual shift requires us to redefine three key terms and rethink the dialogue between cultures in a way that avoids the false debate about identity and difference.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 100 pages
Publication date: 19 March 2021
Publisher: Polity Press

As people all around the world grapple with the impacts of globalization and embrace a renewed sense of nationalism, they are asserting distinct cultural identities for themselves. Cultural identity is seen as a protective barrier against the homogenizing forces of globalization, providing a framework for nurturing and safeguarding cultural diversity.

In his concise and thought-provoking book, François Jullien challenges this prevailing emphasis on cultural identity. Jullien argues that cultures exist in interconnected relationships and are constantly evolving and transforming. He suggests that there is no fixed cultural identity, but rather a collection of resources that are available to all and belong to no one. These resources are not exclusive, as they are not tied to particular values or groups. Instead, they are open to individual interpretation and utilization.

This conceptual shift necessitates a redefinition of three key terms: the universal, the uniform, and the common. By understanding these terms in new ways, we can reimagine the dialogue between cultures, avoiding the false debate about identity and difference. This powerful critique of the modern shibboleth of cultural identity will resonate with anyone interested in the critical social and political issues of our time.

Weight: 110g
Dimension: 124 x 190 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509546992