Perspectives on National Identity: The Case of Emerging Intelligentsia in South Africa

ABSTRACT

After more than two decades since the general euphoria associated with the South African ‘miracle’, the ‘Madiba magic’ and the ‘Rainbow Nation’, it is necessary to take stock whether (and if so, how) the state succeeded in building a national identity. Such an identity includes cultural and ethnic identity and is a strong indicator of the level of cohesion or polarisation in a country. The purpose of this article was to reflect on findings of an empirical survey about the status of national identity conducted among the ‘emerging intelligentsia’ of society. These are young, educated people, represented in this case by undergraduate students at the North-West University. The study determined to which extent they perceive and experience national identity. The factors were identified that enhance or constrain a common national identity. The results highlighted the main elements that hamper the development of a unified South African identity. Among these elements are one culture’s perceived supremacy over another, cultural exclusiveness, cultural inequality, and limited equal opportunities for prosperity.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

ORCID

Gerrit van der Waldt http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9458-1982

Barend Prinsloo http://orcid.org/0000-0002-7884-150X

Notes

1. Referring to the relative peaceful transition of power from the white minority to the black majority after a multiparty negotiated settlement, the CODESA Conference at the World Trade Centre in Johannesburg (1992).

2. Referring to the reconciliatory narratives of former President Nelson Mandela that were conducive for nation-building.

3. Referring to Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s ideals of building unity by celebrating diversity as a nation.

4. See https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/we-wont-impose-school-oath-390414.