This upper level textbook offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary exploration of the complex entanglements between identity formation and political life in the 21st century. Bridging sociology, political science, and law, the book interrogates how identity is constructed, contested, and mobilized within political arenas.

From the philosophical underpinnings of identity to its role in the justification of collective rights, the book systematically traces the evolution of identity politics and its influence on legal frameworks, public discourse, and digital culture. In nine chapters, the volume covers diverse themes: the ontological roots of identity, the tensions between liberalism and multiculturalism, the communicative dynamics of political identity in campaigns, the environmentalist aspects of identity and the legal mechanisms supporting collective rights. Particular attention is paid to the digital realm, where algorithmically mediated interactions reshape identity and intensify polarization.

This is an essential resource for advanced students and scholars in political sociology, legal studies, and political theory, providing both foundational insight and contemporary relevance in a rapidly shifting political landscape.

Autorentext

Kire Sharlamanov is Full Professor of Sociology at the International Balkan University, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia. His specialty is in the field of political sociology. He is the author of several books and articles in the field of sociology.

Natalija Shikova is a lawyer, Associate Professor in International Public law, at the Faculty of Law, International Balkan University in Skopje, North Macedonia. Except for the interest in public policies, she is participating in various international projects related to the building and implementation of confidence-building measures, promotion of human rights and their protection, securing minority rights and non territorial autonomy, as well as measures aimed towards digitalization and democratization of the society.

Inhalt

Chapter 1: ONTOLOGY OF IDENTITY.- Chapter 2: IDENTITY POLITICS.- Chapter 3: IDENTITY AND POLITICAL COMMUNICATION.- Chapter 4: IDENTITY AS A BASIS FOR COLLECITVE RIGHTS.- Chapter 5: COLLECTIVE RIGHTS IN SUPPORT OF IDENTITY.- Chapter 6: IDENTITY, TERRITORY AND ENVIRONMENTALISM.- Chapter 7: IDENTITY IN DIGITAL REALM.- Chapter 8: IDENTITY AND EXTREMISM.- Chapter 9: THE IDENTITY POLITICS IN A GLOBALIZ D WORLD: FLUIDITY, CONFLICT, AND COLLECTIVE BELONGING.- REFERENCES.- INDEX.