Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment

by Francis Fukuyama
Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment cover
Good Books rating 3.56
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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Paperback • £11.99
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  • ID: 9254
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9780374906740
  • Published: 2018-09-11
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Identity is a profound exploration of the multifaceted nature of personal and collective identities. It delves into the intricate web of cultural, social, and historical factors that shape who we are and how we perceive ourselves and others. The book offers a nuanced perspective on the ever-evolving concept of identity, challenging readers to reflect on their own experiences and the broader societal contexts that influence them. /n/n Through a blend of personal narratives, sociological insights, and cultural critiques, Identity provides a comprehensive examination of the themes of belonging, diversity, and self-discovery. It invites readers to question the assumptions and stereotypes that often define our understanding of identity, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexity and richness of human experiences.

Reviews
The Storygraph · 2026-01-03
mixed 3.00

The first half of the book is praised for its exploration of identity and values, but the conclusions are found to be unsatisfactory. The book is seen as a valuable contribution to the discussion on identity politics.

The reviewer loved the first half of the book, which traces the evolution of understanding identity and values. They found this part of the book to be insightful and well-researched. However, they did not agree with Fukuyama's takeaways and conclusions. Despite this, they acknowledge that the book is a valuable contribution to the ongoing discussion about identity politics and its impact on society. The reviewer appreciates the depth of analysis in the first half but feels that the latter part of the book falls short of providing a comprehensive solution to the challenges posed by identity politics.

Quick quotes

    I loved the first half of the book tracing the evolution of understanding identity and values, but Fukuyama's takeaways did not sit well with me at all.

    The book is a valuable contribution to the discussion on identity politics.

    The first half of the book is praised for its exploration of identity and values, but the conclusions are found to be unsatisfactory.

Adarsh Badri's Blog · Adarsh Badri · 2025-02-21
timely 3.50

The book is seen as a timely exploration of the threats posed by identity politics to liberal democracy. The reviewer finds Fukuyama's analysis compelling but believes the solutions proposed are not fully convincing.

Adarsh Badri finds Fukuyama's exploration of the threats posed by identity politics to liberal democracy to be timely and relevant. They appreciate the depth of analysis and the way Fukuyama dissects the complexities of modern political identity. However, Badri notes that while the book raises important questions, the solutions proposed are not fully convincing. They suggest that Fukuyama's ideas could be further developed to provide more actionable insights. Overall, the book is seen as a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about identity politics and its implications for democracy.

Quick quotes

    Fukuyama's exploration of the threats posed by identity politics is timely and relevant.

    The book raises important questions but falls short in providing fully convincing solutions.

    A valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about identity politics and democracy.

Modern Reformation · 2018-12-11
positive 4.00

The book is noted for its resonance with a wide audience, particularly in Canadian and American media. It is seen as a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary identity politics.

The reviewer notes that Fukuyama's work has resonated with a wide audience, as evidenced by the number of prominent reviews in Canadian and American media. They see the book as a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary identity politics. The reviewer appreciates the book's exploration of the complexities of identity and its impact on society. They find the book to be thought-provoking and insightful, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges posed by identity politics. The reviewer believes that the book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the current political landscape.

Quick quotes

    Judging by the number of prominent reviews of this book in Canadian and American media, Fukuyama's work has resonated with a wide audience.

    Fukuyama's work is seen as a significant contribution to the understanding of contemporary identity politics.

    The book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the current political landscape.

LSE Inequality and Human Development Blog · 2018-11-14
insightful 3.75

The book explores the inherent contradiction in our need for self-worth, highlighting how identity politics can be both constructive and destructive. It provides a nuanced analysis of the current political climate.

The reviewer appreciates Fukuyama's exploration of the concept of thymos, which drives our need for recognition and dignity. They find the book insightful in its analysis of how identity politics can both empower and divide societies. The reviewer also notes that Fukuyama's critique of liberal democracy is thought-provoking, though they suggest that some of the solutions proposed are not fully fleshed out. Overall, the book is seen as a valuable contribution to understanding contemporary political dynamics.

Quick quotes

    Fukuyama's exploration of thymos is a compelling lens through which to view modern identity politics.

    The book provides a nuanced analysis of the constructive and destructive aspects of identity politics.

    Fukuyama's critique of liberal democracy is thought-provoking, though some solutions feel incomplete.

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