The Identity Trap

An emphasis on identity is dividing our society, we can return to classical liberalism

Over the past decade we have seen a shift, particularly among younger Millennials and Gen Z, away from classical liberal universal values of individualism, liberty, and equal rights, and toward a philosophy focused on identity and social justice that is variously referred to as "progressive" (the term I typically use), "woke," "social justice fundamentalism" (used by Tim Urban in "What's Our Problem,") "postmodernism," "critical theory," and "identity politics."

In his just published book, “The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time,” Yascha Mounk, uses the term “identity synthesis” to describe the philosophy of progressives who have abandoned the pursuit of objective truths and hope for a harmonious society. Mounk provides a comprehensive and insightful account of a set of ideas about identity and social justice that is rapidly transforming America and the world. He calls this set of ideas the identity synthesis, and he argues that it is a trap that will undermine the noble goals of its proponents and endanger the future of liberal democracy. Importantly, Mounk offers not just analyses for how we got here, but also recommendations for the way forward.

I had been looking forward to this book and read it in September as soon as it was published. Mounk's analysis has shaped my understanding of the forces for illiberalism we are experiencing in America today, from both progressives, the focus of this book, and the Trumpian alt-right. Below I have done my best to summarize key concepts from the 414 pages. I highly recommend this book.

Mounk, Yascha. 2023. The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time. New York: Penguin Press.

Yascha Mounk is a German-born American political scientist known for his work on the rise of populism and the founder of Persuasion, an online magazine devoted to defending the values of free societies. He writes that he has dedicated a significant part of his career to studying the decline of democracy and the growth of right-wing populism. This focus is evident in his extensive body of work, which includes "a radio documentary, two books, a dozen academic articles and policy reports, about a hundred episodes of my podcast, and well over a thousand op-eds, reported articles, keynote speeches, and television interviews." His latest book represents a departure from this long-standing emphasis on right-wing populism to focus on progressive illiberalism because, in contrast, "there is surprisingly little work that tells the story of its rise, explains the reasons for its appeal, and seriously assesses the effect it is having on the world."

The identity synthesis is the belief that each person’s matrix of identities, such as race, gender, and sexual orientation, should be the central focus of social, cultural, and political life. It is based on the assumptions that identity categories are fixed and immutable, that members of different groups can never truly understand each other, and that the way governments treat their citizens should depend on identity markers such as the color of their skin, their chosen gender identity, and so forth. The identity synthesis emerged from the intellectual movements of postmodernism, postcolonialism, and critical race theory, and it gained prominence in the past decade through the influence of social media, academia, and activism.

Mounk’s purpose in writing this book is to expose the origins, consequences, and limitations of the identity synthesis, and to offer a way out of the identity trap. He does not deny the existence or importance of identity, nor does he dismiss the legitimate grievances and aspirations of marginalized groups. Rather, he challenges the identity synthesis as a flawed and dangerous ideology that will fail to achieve its aims and will harm both the dominant and the oppressed. He advocates for a return to the ideals of universalism, liberalism, and pluralism, which he believes are the best foundations for a diverse and democratic society.

Origins of the Identity Synthesis

Mounk traces the intellectual history of the identity synthesis from the late 20th century to the present. He shows how the identity synthesis emerged from the combination of three influential movements: postmodernism, postcolonialism, and critical race theory. Postmodernism began with Michel Foucault's philosophical rejection of universal truths and objective reality, instead celebrating subjective interpretations and multiple perspectives. Postcolonialism is the political critique of the legacy of colonialism and imperialism, and the recognition of the oppression and exploitation of the Global South by the West. Critical race theory is the legal analysis of the role of race and racism in shaping the law and society, and the advocacy of racial justice and anti-discrimination.

Foucault, Michel. 1998. Aesthetics, Method, and Epistemology. Edited by James D. Faubion. Translated by Robert Hurley et al. Vol. 2 of Essential Works of Foucault, 1954–1984. New Press.

Those who have adopted the identity synthesis are often confused with Marxists, but there are substantial differences in the philosophies. The identity synthesis and Marxism disagree about the prism through which they view the world and who must be liberated from oppression to bring about a better world. "Marxists believe that the economic category of class is fundamental. Meanwhile, adherents of the identity synthesis focus on group identities like race, gender, and sexual orientation, including class in their list at most as a kind of afterthought." Marxists have a goal of revolution for a universal proletariat, class antagonisms will be ended by "putting proletarians in charge and abolishing all class distinctions. This gives Marxism a utopian promise of a future in which classes disappear and all humans can finally stand in solidarity with each other." Marxism offers a utopian promise while the identity synthesis lacks any such hopeful result.

The identity synthesis has become the dominant ideology in many academic disciplines, especially in the humanities and the social sciences, and has spread from academia to the mainstream, through the influence of social media, journalism, and activism. He provides some examples of how the identity synthesis has shaped the discourse and the agenda of various institutions and movements, such as Black Lives Matter, #metoo, and cancel culture.

Consequences of the Identity Synthesis

The identity synthesis has some benefits, raising awareness of the diversity and complexity of human experience, challenging the dominance of certain groups, and empowering the voices and rights of the marginalized and oppressed. There are genuine injustices which must be redressed, such as racism, sexism, antisemitism, and violence and discrimination against minorities and dissidents.

However, the identity synthesis has some serious drawbacks and dangers, such as undermining the ideals of universalism, liberalism, and pluralism, which are the best foundations for a diverse and democratic society. Universalism is the principle that all human beings have equal dignity and rights, regardless of their identity. Liberalism is the doctrine that individuals should be free to pursue their own interests and values, as long as they do not harm others. Pluralism is the attitude that different groups and perspectives can coexist and cooperate, without imposing their views on others.

The identity synthesis challenges these ideals in various ways. For example, the identity synthesis rejects the notion of universal human rights, and instead advocates for group-based rights and privileges. The identity synthesis limits the freedom of expression and inquiry, and instead imposes a rigid and dogmatic orthodoxy. The identity synthesis fuels polarization, resentment, and intolerance, eroding the trust and civility that are essential for democracy.

The identity synthesis is based on some questionable and contradictory assumptions, such as the idea that identity categories are natural and immutable, while also being socially constructed and fluid. Identity categories are simultaneously the primary and exclusive source of meaning and belonging, while also being the main cause of conflict and division. The philosophy undermines the social cohesion and mutual respect that are necessary for diversity and tolerance.

The result of an emphasis on identity is what we are experiencing today, the rise of identity politics, the decline of public debate, the spread of cancel culture, the backlash of populism, and the fragmentation of society. The identity synthesis is not only harmful to the dominant and the privileged, but also to the oppressed and the marginalized, as it traps them in a cycle of victimhood and resentment, preventing them from achieving true liberation and integration.

The identity synthesis has backfired on its own aims and values by alienating and radicalizing many people who do not identify with or agree with the identity synthesis, and who feel threatened and excluded by it. The identity synthesis has created new forms of oppression and discrimination, such as silencing and marginalizing people who do not conform to or comply with the identity synthesis, and who challenge or question it. Mounk warns that the identity synthesis is not only failing to achieve its noble goals, but also betraying its own principles and ideals.

Where Do We Go From Here?

Crucially, Mounk goes beyond just framing the problem to offer concrete advice for escaping the identity trap to create a more diverse and democratic society. He advocates for a return to the ideals of universalism, liberalism, and pluralism, the best foundations for a diverse and democratic society. His recommendations for how each of us as individuals can promote the ideals of classical liberalism and resist the identity trap:

Claim the Moral High Ground

When facing social pressures to conform to prevailing views, individuals often internalize a sense of shame for holding dissenting opinions, manifesting in two primary ways. The "reluctant heretics" attempt to avoid criticism by overly qualifying their statements, inadvertently weakening their stance. In contrast, "defiant heretics" adopt an aggressive tone, diminishing their opportunity to persuade others. The key to effectively presenting unpopular views lies in embracing them confidently. Recognizing that one's opinions are the result of thoughtful consideration and are part of a respected tradition can empower an individual to articulate their perspectives with calm confidence, even in the face of opposition. This approach fosters a more constructive dialogue and maintains the integrity of one's beliefs.

Don’t Vilify Those Who Disagree

Avoid demonizing those who hold different opinions. Throughout history, widely accepted beliefs have frequently evolved, and it is unreasonable to label those who once held or currently hold different views as inherently immoral or unintelligent. Recognizing that intelligent and morally upright individuals can have vastly divergent perspectives on significant matters, including the concept of identity, is crucial. This understanding fosters a more respectful and productive discourse, avoiding the pitfalls of reducing political or ideological disagreements to personal failings. Embracing this approach not only elevates the quality of public debate but also helps in appreciating the complexity of human thought and the dynamic nature of societal norms.

Remember That Today’s Adversaries Can Become Tomorrow’s Allies

Persuasion is a gradual, often imperceptible process, not typically achieved during heated debates. Evidence suggests that people's views evolve over time, with many changing their opinions on significant public policy issues. This transformation can move in various ideological directions, and what seems immutable today might shift tomorrow. Ideological change and political persuasion are more common than one might think. Maintaining open, respectful dialogues and recognizing the dynamic nature of beliefs and opinions has the potential to transform today's adversaries into tomorrow's allies.

Appeal to the Reasonable Majority

To effectively engage in public discourse, focus on appealing to the reasonable majority rather than the vocal extremes often highlighted in media. This majority, which is diverse and sensible, values a balanced perspective on historical and current issues. They appreciate learning about both the achievements and failings of their nation. Engaging with this group requires acknowledging the complexity of issues and avoiding polarizing rhetoric, aiming instead for inclusive and respectful dialogue that resonates with the nuanced views held by most people.

Make Common Cause with Other Opponents of the Identity Synthesis . . .

In addressing the challenges of the identity synthesis, philosophical liberals should build coalitions with diverse groups that share a skepticism toward this ideology for their own principled reasons. This includes engaging with those from different political and religious backgrounds, such as Marxists, conservatives, Christians, and Buddhists, who may all find aspects of the identity synthesis in conflict with their core beliefs. While the identity synthesis focuses on identity-based categories like race and gender, many of these groups prioritize other factors, such as economic class or universalist principles. It's essential to recognize and collaborate with these varied perspectives while remaining true to one's liberal principles and avoiding alliances with unprincipled or extreme viewpoints. This approach fosters a broader, more effective opposition to the identity synthesis, uniting a wide range of critics under a common cause.

. . . But Don’t Become a Reactionary

Critics of the identity synthesis should avoid becoming reactionary, defined by opposition rather than a positive vision. This cautionary note stems from the observation that intense focus on combating a specific ideology, such as Marxism among Central European historians, can lead to a narrow perspective that overshadows other important aspects of scholarship or thought. In resisting the identity trap, it's crucial not to fall into the trap of '180ism', “the tendency of many participants in public debate to hear what their perceived enemies have to say and immediately declare themselves diametrically opposed.” Instead, be guided by your own positive values and principles. This approach ensures that one's critique of the identity synthesis is grounded in a constructive and principled framework, avoiding the pitfall of being consumed by opposition to the extent of losing sight of one’s fundamental beliefs and goals.

Mounk also has advice for organizations struggling with the identity trap: “clearly communicate that employees are expected to be tolerant toward different points of view;” “solicit real feedback instead of letting activists hijack the conversation;” “stop employees from bullying each other on social media;” “don’t discipline anybody before the facts are clear and passions have cooled;” and “don’t apologize unless you’ve done something wrong.”

In Summary

Yascha Mounk's "The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time" is a timely and vital exploration of the complexities surrounding identity politics and social justice. Mounk challenges us to question our assumptions, listen to diverse perspectives, and reflect on how our identities shape our worldviews. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the implications of the identity synthesis, urging us to strive for a just and inclusive society without falling into the identity trap. This book is a call to action, inviting readers to join in the pursuit of a balanced, liberal, and pluralistic society. Mounk's insights provide a clear pathway for navigating the intricate landscape of modern identity politics, making this book a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and engage constructively in today's social and political discourse.

Peace through understanding.