Personal Identity

Personal Identity

Introduction

Identity is a difficult word, the concept behind is hard to grasp. Sure there are many different understandings of it. Basically it is to distinguish between the self-perceived self-identity and perceived from the outside (and communicated) Foreign-identity. The self-identity appears to contain an externally inaccessible, not fully conscious core. It is characterized by the growth, by statements of others, determined by interactions with a large degree, though, foreign reaction in turn interpreted and processed. The self-identity is attributed by the inclusion of identity is always a multiple (mind.ucsd.edu). Internal and external identity diverges systematically. If the difference is too large, this is usually because of social problems. Example: My parents is from China, the first language is Chinese, I will continue my conversion with my family in Chinese, but I raised in America, I speaks English, feels that the American and the Chinese culture close in many respects. I have American passport which will nevertheless considered “foreigners” i.e. categorized strangers. For me it is not easy to find an identity and maintain balance.

Discussion

Culture has a profound impact on how individuals perceive themselves, perceive the limits imposed by society. These perceptions are so internalized that they are difficult to articulate, but they usually occur in the behavior. This method allows individuals to express their personality and aspirations. If Asia is more diverse in cultural as America, the focus on social harmony is a predominant factor and unifying common to all societies. Asian societies are collectivist mainly because individual rights are subordinated to those of the group.

This mode of operation is necessary to maintain social harmony. It is well established in Confucianism, Buddhism and Islam and in sharp contrast with Western individualism. The difference is clear and has major implications for the behavior of the client. While Asians tend to identify in the context of society and human relations, the West meanwhile, identify themselves in terms of attributes or personal achievements. Of course, all companies are generally more collectivist individualists because of the independent agrarian communities. Individualism is now considered a natural part of society “modern”. But this view is challenged by Asian cultures. The group membership, which involves the identification of an individual to a collective goal, is on the top priority. People are desperate to be accepted by their peers and are occupied by a deep fear of exclusion. Thus, the desires of the individual become secondary to those of the group as the membership is the ultimate satisfaction. This feeling is a strong anchor of identity that demands loyalty of the individual to the group (Martin, Barresi, 2003, pp. 168).

The rules of reciprocity and design are usually much more formal in Western countries than in Eastern countries. They reflect the importance of relationships and social bonds in a collectivist culture, confirming the insertion of the individual to the group.

The exchange of gifts is the most direct and most tangible to grow “guanxi” in China, or honors the "giri” in ...