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8 - Identity Verifi cation and the Social Order

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 December 2015

By
Peter J. Burke  and
Jan E. Stets
Edited by
Edward J. Lawler ,
Shane R. Thye  and
Jeongkoo Yoon
Peter J. Burke
Affiliation:
University of California, Riverside USA
Jan E. Stets
Affiliation:
University of California, Riverside USA
Edward J. Lawler
Affiliation:
Cornell University, New York
Shane R. Thye
Affiliation:
University of South Carolina
Jeongkoo Yoon
Affiliation:
EWHA Women's University, Seoul
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Summary

Abstract

We outline how identity verification has consequences for the construction and reconstruction of the social order. Identity verification occurs when individuals perceive self-relevant meanings in the situation that match who they are in that situation (their identity). Verification of an identity feels good. This generates solidarity (when facilitated by others) and adherence to norms. Identities are verified by individuals controlling the flow of resources in interaction, and it is this flow that maintains the social structure. Resources either can be ready to be consumed (active resources) such as food for nourishment, or they can have some future use (potential resources) such as education for adaptation. We discuss how identity verification is accomplished by using symbols and signs attached to potential and actual resources in situations. The control of resources helps verify not only one's own identity but also others’ identities. Since the process of identity verification produces positive feelings and stronger social bonds, this should facilitate maintenance of the social order. Identity nonverification will have the reverse effect on the social order, generating negative emotions, conflict, and chaos.

In identity theory, identity verification means changing the world (as we perceive it) to be the way it is supposed to be (according to our identity standards). Our perceptions are the meanings that we control to accomplish this. Perceptually, meanings are conveyed through signs and symbols emanating from the situation. Much of the research and theory within the identity theory framework has focused on symbols, whose arbitrary meanings, learned from the common culture, are shared with others. In this chapter, we emphasize this but also bring more attention to the other source of meaning noted by Mead (1934): signs, whose meaning is not arbitrary but is learned by direct experience in the situation. In this way, we begin to delineate more clearly the connection of identities to the material world and the social structure that surrounds and sustains us. We also point to the role of resource flows including actual and potential resources in verifying people's identities and in maintaining the social structure.

Type
Chapter
Information
Order on the Edge of Chaos
Social Psychology and the Problem of Social Order
 , pp. 145 - 164
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2015

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References

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