ethnilisation

Ethnilisation is a sociological concept that describes the process by which a group of people becomes identified and operates as an ethnic group, often in the context of intergroup relations. This process is not about the inherent existence of an ethnic identity but rather about the social and political construction of such an identity. It involves the emergence of shared perceptions of common ancestry, culture, language, or religion, and the development of a collective consciousness based on these perceived commonalities.

Ethnilisation can be driven by various factors, including political mobilization, economic competition, or social discrimination. When a group faces external pressures or seeks to assert its rights or interests, it may emphasize its ethnic distinctiveness, leading to the strengthening of ethnic identity. This can involve the reinterpretation of history, the promotion of cultural practices, or the articulation of specific political demands.

The concept is particularly relevant in understanding conflicts and social divisions. In situations where ethnic identities are salient, they can become primary bases for social organization, political allegiance, and even hostility towards other groups. Ethnilisation highlights that ethnicity is not a fixed or static attribute but a dynamic social construct that can be activated, reinforced, or even created through social processes. It emphasizes that the perception of "us" versus "them" is often a product of social interaction and political circumstances.