Importance of National Identity in Singapore
How important is it for Singapore to possess a national identity?
Introduction
Singapore’s possession of a National Identity has long sparked nationwide discussion and is still one of the most widely debated about topics in Singapore. National identity is the sense of belonging and cohesive whole in a nation. While the importance of a national identity can be restricted since Singapore comprises a large percentage of immigrants, a national identity gives Singaporeans a sense of rootedness, preserves unique national culture and maintains social cohesion. Thus, it is important for Singapore to possess a national identity.
Argument 1
Singapore needs a national identity because it gives Singaporeans a sense of rootedness.
Lacking a national identity makes it harder for Singaporeans to grasp the idea of a sense of rootedness in Singapore. They may struggle to identify themselves as Singaporeans. A national identity helps Singaporeans recognize what truly makes them a Singaporean, strengthening their sense of belonging.
‘Kiasu-ism’ aka the fear of losing, and the love for foods of different cultures, have long been embraced as national traits. It is a trait deeply ingrained in all Singaporeans that differentiates a Singaporean from a foreigner. Since ‘kiasu’ mindsets exist in most Singaporeans, Singaporeans can identify themselves as part of a community of likeminded individuals. It is, but human instinct to feel a sense of belonging in a tribe of individuals with the same thinking and mannerisms. In this case, that tribe is Singapore.
Establishing a common national identity defines the traits that a Singaporean has and sends the signal that each Singaporean has a definite place in the heart of Singapore, a place that they truly belong to and have the right to call their own.
Argument 2
Singapore needs a national identity to preserve unique national culture.
Singapore’s culture stems from the national identity and can only be preserved if national identity
Introduction
Singapore’s possession of a National Identity has long sparked nationwide discussion and is still one of the most widely debated about topics in Singapore. National identity is the sense of belonging and cohesive whole in a nation. While the importance of a national identity can be restricted since Singapore comprises a large percentage of immigrants, a national identity gives Singaporeans a sense of rootedness, preserves unique national culture and maintains social cohesion. Thus, it is important for Singapore to possess a national identity.
Argument 1
Singapore needs a national identity because it gives Singaporeans a sense of rootedness.
Lacking a national identity makes it harder for Singaporeans to grasp the idea of a sense of rootedness in Singapore. They may struggle to identify themselves as Singaporeans. A national identity helps Singaporeans recognize what truly makes them a Singaporean, strengthening their sense of belonging.
‘Kiasu-ism’ aka the fear of losing, and the love for foods of different cultures, have long been embraced as national traits. It is a trait deeply ingrained in all Singaporeans that differentiates a Singaporean from a foreigner. Since ‘kiasu’ mindsets exist in most Singaporeans, Singaporeans can identify themselves as part of a community of likeminded individuals. It is, but human instinct to feel a sense of belonging in a tribe of individuals with the same thinking and mannerisms. In this case, that tribe is Singapore.
Establishing a common national identity defines the traits that a Singaporean has and sends the signal that each Singaporean has a definite place in the heart of Singapore, a place that they truly belong to and have the right to call their own.
Argument 2
Singapore needs a national identity to preserve unique national culture.
Singapore’s culture stems from the national identity and can only be preserved if national identity