Understanding Identity

Kath Woodwardis senior lecturer in Sociology at the Open University and chair of the very popular Introduction to the Social Sciences course. Her previous publications include "Identity and Difference" and "Questioning Identity." Identity has become a buzzword that we hear about in a range of contexts, from concern with the self expressed through therapy, to identity crises that operate on the global arena. This book offers the first introduction to the lively debates surrounding the concept of identity. Drawing on examples of gender, ethnic, age and work identities, as well as those linked to place and nation, this collection explores personal, social and cultural identities. Taking an interdisciplinary approach, the book maps out contemporary debates about identity within sociology, cultural studies, media studies, social psychology and political science. Each chapter addresses the variety of ways in which theories about identity seek to resolve the tension between viewing identity as being fixed and stable, or fluid and changing. "Kath Woodward's interest in identity emerges here as a coherent survey of the many elements that have gone into making the concept so central in contemporary sociology. Her experience of writing for the Open University comes through in the accessibility of her explanations and examples. The introduction stands as an essay in its own right .Woodward's approach is a breath of fresh air so valuable for undergraduate students."--Sociology

Dr Kath Woodward is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology at the Open University