One of the important themes discussed in constructivist theory is this notion of internal v. external identity. This is an issue that I have happened to discuss in both World Politics and Cross Cultural Communication this week. Identity development is complex in that it depends not just on internal perception but the perception of “the other.” This tension between the two images is best exemplified by the concept of Lady Gaga as a nation-state mentioned in class on Monday. In my most recent blog post, I stretched this notion to apply to so-called antagonistic states, North Korea and Iran. It’s up to you guys to tell me whether I justified that parallel or not.
We often hear the phrase “One man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter.” I think this notion is extremely applicable to the identity struggle mentioned in constructivist theory. When we develop our own identity as an individual, community, or entire nation, we must define ourselves internally but be conscious of the way we are perceived through out the world. This idea was debated in my Cross Cultural Communication class in a discussion over American culture this week. If the world views us as a largely Christian nation, can we really pat ourselves on the back for being religiously tolerant and diverse? Is this a misperception on their part or ours?
This identity struggle is what truly complicates international relations on a large scale. Constructivism discusses how nations assume certain reactions from another nation based on their perceived identity in the global order. But can we accurately predict reactions from a state if their own identity is inconsistent with the caricature we have developed for them? It is interesting to see the similarities when this identity struggle is applied to individuals on the micro level and entire nations on the macro level.
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