I found this article extremely interesting. One of the most outstanding quotes within this passage to me is earlier along when Giles claims that the multiple
“components of this dual identity are salient, and each one is triggered on different occasions as being more central to who that person is at that moment”
This quote is so intriguing because it is not something that is not always done consciously. Usually in different circumstances that cause for different assets of one’s personality to come out, the switch happens naturally and without thought. The way in which all these aspects work together to create an identity is especially interesting when considering how each aspect’s individuality surfaces depending on the situation.
I also thought that Gile’s social identity theory was also interesting. The fact that people choose to demonstrate pride for their ingroup by emphasizing its characteristics becomes a way to consider the reason behind senseless rivalries. To me, it seems that the more differences are emphasized the more tension arises due to a desire to be the dominant ingroup. Even though the initial intent may have been to merely display pride, I see how this intent can be easily misconstrued.
I also found it interesting and relatable that each individual identity is more evident when it is relatable to the situation. I feel that this is a way to fit in in each situation and conversation–by offering the part of your identity that relates the most to the others in that in-group.
I completely agree with you, that quote stuck out to me as well. People tend to switch unconsciously all the time which is interesting. I wonder if some people trigger it on purpose?
This was interesting to read because it covers a lot of material that I learned or am learning in my interpersonal communications class. I believe that ingroups and outgroups are formed by our socialization factors and our attitudes and beliefs.
I completely agree and thought you made a series of excellent points. What I found very interesting is when you place people of similar ideas together in these in-groups their views intensify because there are no differing viewpoints. Their opinions feed off of one another.