Examine critically the relationship between Identity and power (Term Paper Sample)

Examine critically the relationship between Identity and power
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Identity and power are two sides of a coin, making it almost impossible to tell them apart. Power, according to Carl Schmitt, is the sovereign authority that determines what is to be considered lawful or unlawful. For instance this might be in form of a state or a nation. Identity on the other hand, refers to how a given population identifies themselves be it in terms of religion, nationality or ethnicity. These two forces are used simultaneously due to their mutual relationship. This is because for one of them to exist then the other must also exist.
Firstly, power constructs identity. This is because if power could not exist to define laws and various regulations and draw boundaries between regions and nations then nationalities would not exist. Here, the nationalities have been constructed as a result of having distinct nations which have set and defined boundaries according to the law of the land. Therefore, this proves that power itself constructs identity and then goes ahead to strengthen itself.