Identity: Conversations with Benedetto Vecchi (Themes for the 21st Century Series) [Paperback]

"A thoroughly approachable introduction to Bauman′s ideas and fighting spirit."

–– The Guardian

"This is an enjoyable and instructive read in an accessible language and a pocket format."

–– International Journal of Contemporary Sociology

This topical new book by Zygmunt Bauman explores the notion of identity in the modern world.





As we grapple with the insecurity and uncertainty of liquid modernity, Bauman argues that our socio–political, cultural, professional, religious and sexual identities are undergoing a process of continual transformation. Identities the world over have become more precarious than ever: we live in an era of constant change and disposability – whether it′s last season′s outfit, or car, or even partner – and our identities as a result have become transient and deeply elusive. In a world of rapid global change where national borders are increasingly eroded, our identities are in a state of continuous flux.





Identity – a notion that by its very nature is elusive and ambivalent – has become a key concept for understanding the changing nature of social life and personal experience in our contemporary, liquid modern age. In this brief book, Zygmunt Bauman explains compellingly why this is so.

This topical new book by Zygmunt Bauman explores the notion of identity in the modern world.

As we grapple with the insecurity and uncertainty of liquid modernity, Bauman argues that our socio–political, cultural, professional, religious and sexual identities are undergoing a process of continual transformation. Identities the world over have become more precarious than ever: we live in an era of constant change and disposability – whether it′s last season’s outfit, or car, or even partner – and our identities as a result have become transient and deeply elusive. In a world of rapid global change where national borders are increasingly eroded, our identities are in a state of continuous flux.

Identity – a notion that by its very nature is elusive and ambivalent – has become a key concept for understanding the changing nature of social life and personal experience in our contemporary, liquid modern age. In this brief book, Zygmunt Bauman explains compellingly why this is so.

Zygmunt Bauman is Professor Emeritus at the University of Leeds and the University of Warsaw.

Benedetto Vecchi is a journalist and Editor of the Italian newspaper Il Manifesto