With reference to constructivism explain the two aspects of the social context for explaining the politicization of identity
What will be an ideal response?
Two aspects of the social context are particularly important for explaining the politicization of identity.
First, long-term social, economic, or technological change can politicize identity. Marx correctly noted that industrialization creates an urban working class, whose members may come to understand the political implications of their economic status differently from their ancestors who had worked the land. Rapid economic development can also dramatically alter how people perceive the proper roles for men and women inside and outside the home, thereby changing the nature of gender identities. Migration by large numbers of people—due to environmental disaster, war, or economic development—can bring about competition for natural resources, which sometimes spurs the politicization of ethnic or religious differences and the spread of religions can politicize differences about morality and community ethics. Slow, long-term change in the social context shapes how individuals conceive of themselves and their community, which, in turn, influences the politicization of identity as whole.
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Second, identity can become politicized because someone or some group had an interest in that outcome. That is, constructivism suggests that identity can be politicized as a result of competition for political power. To establish authority or enhance their legitimacy, leaders attempt to articulate an appealing image of the community and its goals. Some politicians attempt to gain followers by highlighting differences between their group and others—such as divides based on race, religion, or differing ideologies—while others attempt to articulate a vision that unifies everyone, for example by highlighting the commonalities that unite citizens of a particular nation. Constructivism highlights how efforts to acquire and hold onto power can politicize different forms of political identity.
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