Identity vs. Character: Rediscovering What Truly Defines Us
In recent years, society seems to be grappling with the concepts of identity and character, often conflating the two. This confusion has led to a resurgence of tribalism in the form of intersectionality, where individuals are categorized based on immutable characteristics. However, it is essential to distinguish between identity and character to understand what truly defines us as individuals. Our identity encompasses aspects of ourselves that we do not control, such as race, gender, and ethnicity. In contrast, our character is shaped by our behavior, choices, and moral integrity. This distinction was eloquently addressed by Martin Luther King Jr. in his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, where he emphasized the importance of judging individuals by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin. To move forward as a society, we must reject the regressive tendencies of tribalism and embrace the evolved understanding of human character.
Understanding Identity
Identity refers to the characteristics and traits that we are born with, such as our race, gender, and ethnicity. These aspects of ourselves are immutable; we have no control over them. While identity can shape our experiences and perspectives, it does not determine our moral worth or define us as individuals.
In his "I Have a Dream" speech, Martin Luther King Jr. famously stated, "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." This powerful message highlights the importance of looking beyond superficial traits to understand a person's true value.
Defining Character
Character, on the other hand, is defined by our behavior, choices, and moral integrity. It is the sum of our actions and decisions, reflecting our values and principles. Unlike identity, character is something we have control over and can cultivate throughout our lives.
Aristotle once said, "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." This quote underscores the idea that our character is built through consistent actions and decisions. By striving to make ethical choices and act with integrity, we shape our character and, in turn, define who we are.
For those of the Christian faith, the Bible provides a profound perspective on the importance of character. In 1 Samuel 16:7, it is written, "The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." This scripture emphasizes that God values our inner character over external identity. Even for those who may not hold religious beliefs, this principle aligns with the broader understanding that focusing on character over identity is beneficial for society as a whole. It reinforces the significance of our actions and choices in creating a just and cohesive community.
The Dangers of Tribalism
Tribalism is an archaic form of social organization based on group identity and loyalty. While it may have been useful for survival in early human history, tribalism is detrimental to modern society. It encourages division, conflict, and a simplistic understanding of human nature. Tribalism reduces individuals to mere representatives of their groups, overlooking the complexity and uniqueness of each person.
In its modern form, intersectionality often promotes tribalism by emphasizing group identity over individual character. This approach can lead to a fragmented society where people are judged based on their membership in various social groups rather than their actions and values. Such a perspective is not only regressive but also counterproductive to the progress of human evolution and the development of a cohesive society.
The Evolution of Human Society
Western society, through centuries of philosophical, cultural, and social evolution, has discovered that identity does not define us as individuals. Instead, it is our character—our behavior, choices, and moral integrity—that truly matters. This understanding has been a cornerstone of democratic and human rights movements, emphasizing the importance of individual merit and the universality of human dignity.
Rejecting tribalism and embracing the evolved understanding of character over identity is crucial for societal progress. Tribalism is a basic, low-level human behavior that hinders the development of a more advanced and inclusive society. To move forward, we must be cognizant of these tendencies and strive to rise above them.
Consciousness and Self-Awareness
To achieve this, we must cultivate a higher level of consciousness and self-awareness. Many people are too wrapped up in their own lives, chasing after their version of the ideal, to recognize the importance of character over identity. By fostering self-awareness and encouraging individuals to reflect on their actions and values, we can help people move beyond the superficial aspects of identity and focus on what truly defines them.
For those guided by Christian principles, the Bible encourages self-examination and growth in character. In Galatians 5:22-23, it describes the fruits of the Spirit: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." This passage highlights the virtues that define a person's character and should be the focus of our personal development.
Conclusion
The distinction between identity and character is crucial for the advancement of society. While identity encompasses the aspects of ourselves that we do not control, character is defined by our behavior, choices, and moral integrity. Emphasizing character over identity allows us to build a more cohesive and just society, free from the regressive tendencies of tribalism. As Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us, it is the content of our character, not the color of our skin, that truly defines us. By embracing this understanding, we can move forward as a society, fostering a more inclusive and enlightened future.