Identity Construction in Europe: A Discursive Approach

Author(s): 
Pages: 
27
Item Reference: 
W-2010/2
Publication Date: 
2010
Publication Place: 
Bruges
Publication Language: 
EN
Publisher: 
UNU Institute on Comparative Regional Integration Studies/ Institute for European Studies
Series Title: 
UNU-CRIS Working Paper
Working Paper Type: 
Abstract: 

Proposing a discursive approach to studying identity, this paper presents Positioning Theory as a theoretical framework for conceptualizing the construction of identity in discourse. The Positioning Diamond is employed to analyse the discourse surrounding the Danish Euro referendum. The analysis reveals how identities are constructed in discourse that promotes a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ vote in the referendum, highlighting the generally implicit allocation of rights and duties to actors within a specific narrative context. The penultimate section discusses appropriate criteria for evaluating discursive accounts, distinguishing between cases in which truth, normative and ethical criteria are applicable. Finally, the paper concludes with a discussion of policy considerations and recommendations.

Keywords: 
Identity, Positioning Diamond, Positioning Theory, Europe, Discourse, Attitudes