Is self- identity created over time, or are we born with it? Self identity, also known as self concept, self perspective or self construction refers to how a person views themselves. Rebecca J. North and William B. Swann are both professors at University of Texas in Austin, Texas. In their article “Self Verification 360 degrees: Illuminating the Light and Dark Sides” they explain the self verification theory. North and Swann explain, “Self verification theory asserts that people are motivated to seek confirmation of their negative as well as positive self-views” (n.pag). They also note, “Because self views serve these vitally important functions, people become invested in maintaining them” (n.pag.).George Orwell is an English journalist and novelist. His book, Down and out in Paris and London, Documents the life of the lower class people in Paris and London in the 1920’s. Of these people, Boris creates his self-identity through being overly optimistic, Bozo creates his self-identity through being an artist, Paddy creates his-self identity through his self-pity and Charlie is through his lies. Boris, Bozo, Paddy and Charlie all do not match up with Swann and North’s self-verification theory.
Then enters Boris, Boris was a Russian waiter. He is by nature overly optimistic and creates his self-identity though it. Boris explains, “I have always said it, there is nothing easier to get than money” (Orwell 44). ). If money was so easy to get then he wouldn’t be in the situation that he is in. Most times he says things that are obviously untrue such as, Boris states, “Oh we shall find something. I have got a few cards up my sleeve. There are people who owe me money, for instance-Paris is full of them” (Orwell 29). If there were really people all over Paris that owed him money then he would be collecting the money. Boris also states, “What things a man can do with brains! Brains will make money out of