Identities thick & thin

A useful paper in the latest volume of the journal Studies in Ethnicity an Nationalism discusses the concept of “thick” and “thin” regional identities. This is something that I’m trying to assess in India in relation to heritage, and the article provides a neat framework within which to discuss the concepts. “Thick” identities are defined as traditional, rooted in heritage and shared cultural characteristics, while “thin” are those that involve bonds that are less locally connected and more individual, fluid and network-based.

The article shows how identities in different European regions have responded to challenges such as globalization by becoming thinner over time, forming a hybrid of thick and thin, or remaining thick. The conclusion is that the hybrid identities, which combine elements of regional heritage with thinner networks on an interregional scale, are stronger and more successful.

In my research it will be interesting to assess areas of India that are currently more rural than global, to see to what degree identity may be thinning, and how this affects people’s position in relation to heritage.

Published: 1.17.10 / 7pm
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