Negotiating Local and National Identifications: Hong Kong Identity Surveys 1996–2006

Abstract

Survey results show that more Hong Kong people claim a mixed identity, seeing themselves as both Hongkongers and Chinese. Their perceptions of Hong Kong–mainland differences are disappearing in terms of economic values but are still conspicuous in terms of political values. They identify with the cultural and historical aspects of their national identity more; political identification remains weak. The authors try to problematize the once dominant mediated local–national dichotomy and propose a multidimensional understanding of the formations of Hong Kong's national identity.

Keywords:

• National Identity
• Cultural Identity
• Mediation
• Transborder Connections
• Identity Icons

Notes

1. For a more comprehensive report of the survey findings, please see Mathews et al. (2007).

2. See http://www.brandhk.gov.hk/brandhk/eindex.htm

3. See http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/me/hkstf/en/index.php