Browning, Christopher S., Joenniemi, Pertti and Steele, Brent J. (2021) Vicarious identity in international relations : self, security and status on the global stage. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780197526385

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Abstract

Vicarious identification, or "living through another" is a familiar social-psychological concept. Shaped by insecurity and a lack of self-fulfilment, it refers to the processes by which actors gain a sense of self-identity, purpose, and self-esteem through appropriating the achievements and experiences of others. As this book argues, it is also an under-appreciated and increasingly relevant strategy of international relations.

According to this theory, states identify and establish special relationships with other nations (often in an aspirational way) in order to strengthen their sense of self, security, and status on the global stage. This identification is also central to the politics of citizenship and can be manipulated by states to justify their global ambitions. For example, why might the United States look at Israel as a model for its own foreign policies? What shaped the politics of Brexit and why is the United Kingdom so attached to its transatlantic "special relationship" with the United States? And, why did Denmark so enthusiastically ally with the United States during the global War on Terror? Vicarious identity, as the authors argue, is at the core of these international dynamics.

Vicarious Identity in International Relations examines the ways in which vicarious identity is relevant to global politics: across individuals; between citizens and states; and across states, regional communities, or civilizations. It looks at a range of cases (the United States, the United Kingdom, and Denmark), which illustrate that vicarious political identity is dynamic and emerges in different contexts, but particularly when nations face crisis, both internally and externally. In addition, the book outlines a qualitative methodology for analyzing vicarious identity at the collective level.

Item Type:	Book
Subjects:	J Political Science > JZ International relations
Divisions:	Faculty of Social Sciences > Politics and International Studies
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Place of Publication:	New York
ISBN:	9780197526385
Official Date:	4 March 2021
Dates:	Date Event 4 March 2021 Published
Number of Pages:	256
DOI:	10.1093/oso/9780197526385.001.0001
Status:	Not Peer Reviewed
Publication Status:	Published
Related URLs:	Publisher Other

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