The construction of identification with mnemonic engineering—toward a conceptual framework of identity-remembering

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe construction of collective memory (and the formation of people’s identification) is a social process; however, this process is under-theorized. This article proposes a conceptual framework through which to understand the identity-remembering process. Several significant elements to consider are pointed out and discussed. Mnemonic engineering indicates that social actors strategically employ available mnemonic techniques and resources to promote a preferred memory and thus identity. Mnemonic alignment and mnemonic refreshment are seen as the two primary goals of mnemonic engineering: to provide standardized memories and to renovate memories on a regular basis. Moreover, a distinction between mnemonic revolution and mnemonic reform is made to refer to the different styles that mnemonic engineerings use to deal with mnemonic sediments (the taken-for-granted memories). The almost inevitable alternatives and constant modifications are also discussed. The proposed conceptual framework is intended for application to identity-remembering cases in various social fields and differential scales.