Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland

This study examines the ethnic identity of the Slovak minority in Poland, focusing on their self-identification and external perceptions. It explores the fluid and dynamic nature of ethnic identity, drawing on theoretical perspectives from scholars such as Babiński and Isajiw. The historical context...

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Main Author: Bryja, Marek
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia 2024
Online Access:http://journalarticle.ukm.my/24683/
http://journalarticle.ukm.my/24683/1/%5B92-102%5D%2077860-267935-1-PB.pdf
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author Bryja, Marek
author_facet Bryja, Marek
author_sort Bryja, Marek
building UKM Institutional Repository
collection Online Access
description This study examines the ethnic identity of the Slovak minority in Poland, focusing on their self-identification and external perceptions. It explores the fluid and dynamic nature of ethnic identity, drawing on theoretical perspectives from scholars such as Babiński and Isajiw. The historical context is analysed, tracing the Slovak minority’s presence in Poland to economic migrations before 1918. Employing a diagnostic survey method, the research investigates the perceptions of both Slovaks and Poles, offering a comparative analysis. The findings suggest that the core elements of the Slovak minority’s identity are rooted in language, traditions, culture, and religion. Despite successful integration and generally positive recognition in Polish society, certain stereotypes and biases persist. The study highlights the dual nature of this identity, where acceptance is accompanied by lingering cultural misconceptions. The research emphasizes the critical role of media and educational institutions in promoting tolerance and understanding of ethnic minorities. It advocates for more active involvement of these institutions in fostering inclusivity and shaping public attitudes, thereby contributing to developing a more culturally diverse and cohesive society in Poland.
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spelling oai:generic.eprints.org:246832025-01-09T08:24:52Z http://journalarticle.ukm.my/24683/ Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland Bryja, Marek This study examines the ethnic identity of the Slovak minority in Poland, focusing on their self-identification and external perceptions. It explores the fluid and dynamic nature of ethnic identity, drawing on theoretical perspectives from scholars such as Babiński and Isajiw. The historical context is analysed, tracing the Slovak minority’s presence in Poland to economic migrations before 1918. Employing a diagnostic survey method, the research investigates the perceptions of both Slovaks and Poles, offering a comparative analysis. The findings suggest that the core elements of the Slovak minority’s identity are rooted in language, traditions, culture, and religion. Despite successful integration and generally positive recognition in Polish society, certain stereotypes and biases persist. The study highlights the dual nature of this identity, where acceptance is accompanied by lingering cultural misconceptions. The research emphasizes the critical role of media and educational institutions in promoting tolerance and understanding of ethnic minorities. It advocates for more active involvement of these institutions in fostering inclusivity and shaping public attitudes, thereby contributing to developing a more culturally diverse and cohesive society in Poland. Penerbit Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia 2024-11 Article PeerReviewed application/pdf en http://journalarticle.ukm.my/24683/1/%5B92-102%5D%2077860-267935-1-PB.pdf Bryja, Marek (2024) Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland. e-Bangi Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities, 21 (4). pp. 92-102. ISSN 1823-884x http://ejournal.ukm.my/ebangi/index
spellingShingle Bryja, Marek
Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland
title Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland
title_full Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland
title_fullStr Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland
title_full_unstemmed Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland
title_short Identity through two lenses: the Slovak minority’s self and external views in Poland
title_sort identity through two lenses: the slovak minority’s self and external views in poland
url http://journalarticle.ukm.my/24683/
http://journalarticle.ukm.my/24683/
http://journalarticle.ukm.my/24683/1/%5B92-102%5D%2077860-267935-1-PB.pdf