Ethnic Studies Review
Orginal Publication Date
2006
Journal Title
Ethnic Studies Review
Volume
29
Issue
esr/vol29/iss1
First Page
1
Last Page
21
Abstract
In this paper I will use the Bakhtinian notion of polyphony,1 of a choral dialogue of multiple and heterogeneous voices, to elaborate a pluralistic account of cultural identity in general and of Hispanic identity in particular. I will complicate and further pluralize the Bakhtinian notion by talking about the overlapping and criss-crossing dialogues of heterogeneous voices that go into the formation of cultural identities. My pluralistic view emphasizes that cultural identity is bound up with differences and opposes those homogeneous models that try to impose a unique articulation of collective identity on the members of a group. Although I will not explicitly discuss the complex relations between cultural identity and racial and ethnic identity,2 my pluralistic view underscores that racial and ethnic elements are crucial components of cultural identity and of its heterogeneous nature; and I oppose those contemporary views that talk about "post-ethnic" and "post-racial" identities, trying to purify individual and collective identities of racial and ethnic meanings.3
Rights
Copyright ©ESR, The National Association for Ethnic Studies, 2006
Comments
Critical Perspectives: New Knowledge