Dialogue and Dominance: Hubert J. Hermans on Identity Development and Cultural Diversity Dialoog en dominantie: Hubert J.M. Hermans over identiteitsontwikkeling en culturele diversiteit

Abstract

Hermans’ theory of the dialogical self is presented as a useful tool to throw light on individual and collective identity processes in contemporary globalized, culturally heterogeneous society. The central concept is that of ‘collective voice’. Hermans presents identity development as a continuous internal dialogue between collective cultural voices, in which dominance (social power) plays a role. Both self and society are ‘multivoiced’. Internal dialogues and external dialogues, individual and collective identity development are closely interwoven. It is argued that insight in individual identity development is of the utmost importance for understanding the social interaction between majority and minority groups in contemporary society.