TEDxSalford

What is the English identity?

Flags… we see them everywhere, but what purpose do they serve in our society? Last week in a speech made concerning calls for independence in Scotland, Ed Miliband encouraged discussion on English identity. Whilst seemingly rejecting a supposed choice between identities, he suggested we are rather better off embracing many. The debate proceeds amidst a backdrop of national events in England, where our most patriotic tendencies surface. But the notion of identity is slightly more complex than getting Gary Barlow to put on a show. Or is it?

In sociology and anthropology, cultural identity refers to the distinctive characteristics an individual maintains that binds them to other social groups on a variety of scales. From one’s gender and ethnicity, to their fashion sense, to personal jokes amongst peers, the forms cultural indicators take is almost limitless. It is a facet universal of all human groups.

The strength of identity lies in it’s unifying qualities. Common characteristics between individuals provide a mutuality and understanding, allowing cooperation that would otherwise stagnate. Identity is rather a reference point than an entity in itself, which ultimately makes individuals feel stronger in that they belong to something bigger.

I echo many of Mr. Miliband’s sentiments regarding multiculturalism and it seems logical in a society as diverse as Britain’s that the thing we have most in common is how different we all are. But this leaves us with a paradox in our national identity despite Miliband’s claims we can have many, as attitudes previously held in a proud nationalistic esteem now holds less relevance.

The summer’s events, both the jubilee and the upcoming Olympics, are no doubt set to restore pride and reinvigorate a sense of national identity in Britain, bringing about positivity to a state short on confidence, displaying the unique value of identity and how it can be manipulated politically, like we have seen throughout history.

To conclude, I believe Ed’s right that you can have multiple identities. But not just in the nationalistic sense, but in the vast array of sub-cultures, sports team affiliations and countless communities in this country. The English have so much history as an affluent culture and society, but also in war and deprivation to, that we sometimes live in limbo between immense pride and a general distaste for our nation. Multiculturalism might not tug on the heartstrings like many of the stereotypical nationalist perspectives but it must be conceded that its relevance today is unquestionable and most of all… people like flags.