In The Name of Identity by Amin Maalouf - Essay Example

In The Name of Identity by Amin Maalouf Amin Maalouf explores why people use identity as an excuse to commit wrongdoings. Identity, in this case, is seen as the religious affiliations, tribal groupings, and gender divisions that constitute the society. Maalouf explains that the concept of identity has been overgeneralised and understood in an argumentative manner in different faiths throughout world’s history. In his presentation, he affirms that identity is both a good concept, but may still be deadly.

Identity is used as a protective mechanism that promotes ethnic and colonialist suppression. Humans cling to their identities through habits that are inherited through generations. It is necessary to accept all identities and identify personal individuality for a better society. The book presents an interesting philosophy towards ethnic forms of identity. The roots of passion and hate are commonly based on such identities and inclinations, and this is mostly unsafe behaviour. Such behaviours can be easily forgotten if they are examined closely.

However, Maalouf does not believe that all is lost, and that there is still faith in humanity if only cultural and religious bearings are given a philosophical thought. Through his argument, it is evident that globalization has both good and negative effects, depending on the form of identity one assumes. For instance, Muslims wage holy war based on their religious inclination. Instead of seeing terrorism as something bad, it is categorized as jihad. People may change their beliefs, and can even change their religion entirely.

Malouf is introduced as an Arabic-speaking Lebanese Christian who dwells in France. Greek and Roman philosophy provides the basis of most forms of religion. These philosophies are what have guided the thoughts that most religious inclinations present. However, globalization gradually introduced the diversity and multiculturalism that is seen in the present societal context. Living in other regions far from home presents an identity dilemma that most people cannot handle. This is especially true in cases where the person is not familiar with the local language.

A Muslim living in America may see oneself as more of American than an Arab. While identity cannot be grouped, it always brings some form of confusion, especially if there are questions asked. This happens in a national and international scale to most foreigners. In addition, they may be labelled based on the stereotypes people have of such identities. Maalouf successfully presents a captivating, challenging and credible study on how personal, spiritual, racial and identities tip sensible thinking.

Such identities promote collective thinking in which people attack and see people with other identities as being different. His argument is presented from a view of multiple identities because he experiences several cultural identities. He does not entirely suggest that identities be rubbished away with, but discourages the meaningless thoughts that come with the concept of identity. In reality, he affirms that everybody is special in their own way. However, this individuality is often influenced by the surroundings people inhabit.

Based on the philosophical concepts of the book, it can be categorized under modern-day literature on diversity, patriotism and international policymaking.Work CitedMaalouf, Amin. In the Name of Identity: Violence and the Need to Belong. New York: Arcade Publishing, 2001.