Identity is the substance of self-definition. It is the way we articulate ourselves, both verbally and non-verbally, to the outside world. It forms the basis for our most important decisions and represents the sum total of our memories, experiences, genetics, and predispositions. Yet it remains startlingly difficult to describe or study. There is something inherently elusive about identity, as if we do not have an adequate language to discuss it properly - it is so intrinsic to the most basic elements of self, yet so complex and available to endless types and possibilities. The following is an aphorism from philosopher E. M. Cioran:
Meditate but one hour upon the self's nonexistence and you will feel yourself to be another man," said a priest of the Japanese Kutha sect to a Western visitor.
Without having frequented Buddhist monasteries, how many times have I not lingered over the world's unreality, and hence my own? I have not become another man for that, no, but there certainly has remained with me the feeling that my identity is entirely illusory, and that by losing it I have lost nothing, except something, except everything.
The point of this is that identity is something that we take for granted as part of our everyday existence, but it would be a mistake to discount its importance to our lives. What can be learned by studying identity, especially looking into the elements that compose it in other cultures and communities, is immeasurable...and then in turn can help us turn that analytical eye towards the mirror to better understand ourselves.
There are hundreds of different elements in an identity. We couldn't possibly examine all of them here-but we have chosen some convenient groupings that will help us classify and analyze different aspects of identity that are common to certain groups. These include: Unit I Language & History, Unit 2 Ethnicity & Politics, Unit 3 Literature & Art, Unit 4 Place & Family/Gender.
PLEASE READ THE COMPLETE SYLLABUS FOR THE COURSE CAREFULLY. You will find that Professor Gaugler and myself have included all the required units and schedule of assignments on the syllabus, as well a rubric for how you will be evaluated.
When you log onto educator, you will find the aspects of each unit in "PACKETS" under Course Materials. You will also need to enter the section on Discussion Boards to find the right aspect of each unit to create your concept and reflection posts. PLEASE NOTE: You have a choice of two aspects of identity in each unit. Once you commit to a unit by posting on the concept discussion thread, you must complete that unit.
Professor Gaugler and I will monitor the discussion threads, including student support thread, but remember we will not enter the student lounge thread. We will also be available for virtual office hours in the chat room of the course during the times designated on the syllabus.
You may begin your history or language quest at any point from this moment. Future units will be unlocked on the educator system as you approach the next quest period.
We hope you are enjoying your new environment and will have fun with the quest assignments. If you're having difficulty, don't hesitate to contact us or Lee Walis for help and advice.
Good luck!
- Professors Franklin and Gaugler
