This study is an attempt to assess the usefulness of the concept of ethnogenesis for describing changes occurring within ethnic collectivities, with particular reference to boundary negotiation prcoesses between minority and majority groupings. It explores the nature of ethnic identification and suggests that there are distinct processes involved in the choice to identify with an ethnic group, and the desire to use this identification as the basis for undertaking public action based on that affiliation. It explores the question as to whether there are differences between the structure and function of associations identified with an ethnic category and those identified with an ethnic group, and suggests that associations may provide a key to understanding boundary negotiation processes of group identity. The functioning of ethnic associations in Bristol is examined in some detail and conclusions offered on the relevance of different approaches to understanding these phenomenon, and on the viability of various options of ethnic political organization. The role of associations in performing tension management functions in ethnic communities is noted, in the context of a critical appraisal of the notions of 'communal' associations and 'buffer institutions'. Examination of the internal tension management processes of ethnic associations is explored, and the central role of 'welfare' noted. It is suggested that this exploration reveals many deficiencies in the voluntary association literature in general and in the ethnic association literature in particular. Problems of undertaking research in ethnic communities in terms of access difficulties are highlighted, as is the problem of studying processes. Areas for further study are identified.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:348426 |
| Date | January 1982 |
| Creators | Jackson, Alun C. |
| Publisher | University of Warwick |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Source | http://wrap.warwick.ac.uk/111832/ |
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