The Architectonics of Identity

Abstract

Identity is seen as a social and cultural institution, that became culturally legitimized and widespread in the era of Modernity. It is approached as a complex hierarchical phenomenon with a core around which various elements are arranged. Among the principal elements constituting the identity there are generic identity; gender (male / female) identity; national (ethnic) one; confessional identity; generational identity; family-related identity; civil identity; professional (labor-related) identity; existential and creative identity. The ideal type features of each of the elements are identified. It is emphasized that they do position the basic modes of human nature. Essential to the formation of identity are values: the identity as such is the embodiment of the construct of “reference to value” (M. Weber).