Research Trends in Discourses of Globalization and Cultural Identity

Abstract

The chapter critiques dominant discourses of cultural identities, environmental influences and forces of globalization. The author argues that, as imagined communities, national identities may well represent this idea in our collective memories and myths. Globalisation has contributed, among other things, to the strengthening of various cultural identities: religious, national, ethnic, and geographic. Current research trends in discourses of globalization and cultural identity demonstrate the nexus between cultural identities and environment. The chapter demonstrates that cultural identity research reflects a rich variety of phenomena in one’s culture and environment affecting our identities, within cultural, social, emotional and behavioural spheres, and our quality of life and chosen life styles.