Self and Identity: Fundamental Issues (Rutgers Series on Self & Social Identity) [Paperback]

Richard D. Ashmore (Editor), Lee Jussim (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 15, 1997 | Series: Rutgers Series on Self & Social Identity (Book 1)

Self and identity have been important yet volatile notions in psychology since its formative years as a scientific discipline. Recently, psychologists and other social scientists have begun to develop and refine the conceptual and empirical tools for studying the complex nature of self. This volume presents a critical analysis of fundamental issues in the scientific study of self and identity. These chapters go much farther than merely taking stock of recent scientific progress. World-class social scientists from psychology, sociology and anthropology present new and contrasting perspectives on these fundamental issues. Topics include the personal versus social nature of self and identity, multiplicity of selves versus unity of identity, and the societal, cultural, and historical formation and expression of selves. These creative contributions provide new insights into the major issues involved in understanding self and identity. As the first volume in the Rutgers Series on Self and Social Identity, the book sets the stage for a productive second century of scientific analysis and heightened understanding of self and identity. Scholars and advanced students in the social sciences will find this highly informative and provocative reading. Dr. Richard D. Ashmore is a professor and Dr. Lee Jussim is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Self and Identity: Fundamental Issues presents the historical progression of the exploration of self and identity-related constructs in addition to providing a critical analysis of these perspectives. Given that the editors of this book did not impose specific meanings on the terms 'self' and 'identity,' the reader is able to read each chapter as a separate and unique approach to this topic area. ... Chapters within this book are organized around two themes: contrasting perspectives on the nature of self and identity, and contexts that are critical for understanding self and identity. ... [T]he chapters are well organized and easy to grasp. Even those fairly unfamiliar with psychological theory can quickly begin to understand the authors' intended direction and theoretical analyses. ... Overall, this piece is a great foundation for individuals of all disciplines who are interested in topics associated with the self."--Disability Studies Quarterly

About the Author

Richard D. Ashmore is at Rutgers University. Lee Jussim is at Rutgers University.

Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (May 15, 1997)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0195098277
• ISBN-13: 978-0195098273
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.1 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,790,820 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)