ABSTRACT
The term identity is protean in its meaning and reach. One definition sees it as “an umbrella term used throughout the social sciences to describe a person’s conception and expression of their individuality or group affiliations (such as national identity and cultural identity).” 2 The latter, i.e., group identities, are generally created out of families, clans, ethnic ties, religions, and regional affiliations. One identity, the national, has come in the last five hundred years or so to predominate. It is usually based on a bounded territory, a centralized government that is in control of collecting taxes, maintaining order, and a police and military force.
