National Identity and Globalization
Youth, State, and Society in Post-Soviet Eurasia

This 2007 text examines the problem of national identity formation in the context of globalization.

Douglas W. Blum (Author)

9780521876193, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 11 October 2007

234 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.7 cm, 0.52 kg

Review of the hardback: 'In one of the first works that in crisp detail makes concrete what has been argued by identity theorists, Douglas Blum illustrates the complex, interactive process in which social identities are constructed. Looking at young people comparatively in three post-Soviet republics - Russia, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan - he shows how identities created by adults become those consumed by the next generation. Based on extensive field work and deep knowledge of the theoretical literature, this study looks at the various actors who imagined new national identities in the face of the challenge of globalization. Blum moves the investigation of identity formation at a moment of radical transformation a giant step forward.' Ronald Grigor Suny, Charles Tilly Collegiate Professor of Social and Political History, The University of Michigan and Professor Emeritus of Political Science and History, The University of Chicago

Is globalization in danger of diluting national identities and 'transnationalizing' cultures? How can societies attempt to manage globalization and become developed while maintaining a viable national identity? In this 2007 study of three globalizing states and cities in post-Soviet Eurasia - Russia (Astrakhan), Kazakhstan (Almaty), and Azerbaijan (Baku) - Douglas W. Blum provides an empirical examination of national identity formation, exploring how cultures, particularly youth cultures, have been affected by global forces. Blum argues that social discourse regarding youth cultural trends - coupled with official and non-official approaches to youth policy - complement patterns of state-society relations and modes of response to globalization. His findings show that the nations studied have embraced certain aspects of modernity and liberalism, while rejecting others, but have also reasserted the place of national traditions.

Introduction
1. Global responses to globalization
2. Theoretical assumptions and methods
3. The discourse of globalization and youth culture
4. National youth identity policy
5. Collaborative entrepreneurship
6. Shaping national youth identity on the ground
7. Conclusions.

Subject Areas: Political economy [KCP], Politics & government [JP], Sociology [JHB]