Against Identity

About the book

'Deeply interesting ... a superb critique of contemporary self-obsession' Steven Poole, Guardian
'Engrossing ... bracing ... incendiary and timely' Stuart Jeffries, Daily Telegraph
A philosopher explains why the search for identity is meaningless, and how we should escape the self
Modern life encourages us to pursue the perfect identity. Whether we aspire to become the best lawyer or charity worker, life partner or celebrity influencer, we emulate exemplars that exist in the world - hoping it will bring us happiness. But this often leads to a complex game of envy and pride. We achieve these identities but want others to imitate us. We disagree with those whose identities contradict ours - leading to polarisation and even...