Thanos VS Thymos
Francis Fukuyama’s “Identity” is a thought-provoking exploration of the complex concept of identity and its profound impact on contemporary society and politics. It is very interesting to look at the book in light of everything that has taken place to shape our identities since the pandemic in 2020.
“The modern concept of identity unites three different perspectives. The first is thymos, a universal aspect of human personality that craves recognition[1]”. At the heart of Fukuyama’s analysis lies the concept of “thymos,” a term borrowed from ancient Greek philosophy that represents the universal human desire for recognition, dignity, and self-worth. Fukuyama argues that thymos is a fundamental aspect of human nature, transcending cultural, geographical, and historical boundaries. It’s the yearning for acknowledgment and respect that drives individuals and groups to seek recognition in various forms.
Though he is looking at it through a political identity lens, there is some wisdom to be gleaned from the book. Fukuyama states, “Identity can be used to divide, but it can and has also been used to integrate. That in the end will be the remedy for the populist politics of the present.[2]”
Fukuyama’s statement reflects his broader argument that identity is a multifaceted concept that can be shaped and channeled in different ways. While identity can undoubtedly be weaponized for political purposes, it also has the potential to serve as a powerful force for social cohesion and collective action. Human beings, according to Fukuyama, naturally crave recognition. He also sees that the modern sense of identity evolves quickly into identity politics, in which individuals demand public recognition of their worth[3]. As Fukuyama sees it, the challenge lies in finding ways to build inclusive identities that bridge divisions and unite people around common values and aspirations. This creates an excellent atmosphere for good leadership. At the time of this writing, we have so much divisiveness around every identity (black lives matter, Christian nationalism, LGBTQIA+, sexuality, etc..) people are fighting for their space because there has been a poor attempt at building a more inclusive identity where there is room for disagreement, grace, understanding and love.
Thanos VS Thymos
There is an excellent quote by the theologian Thanos that I think sums up the moment perfectly for leaders. Thanos, the theologian, said, “The hardest choices require the strongest wills.[4] ” As the world seems to dive deeper into “smaller, self-regarding groups[5]” we as leaders have an opportunity to help craft identities that contain more inclusive narratives of identity that recognize the legitimate concerns of various identity groups while promoting a shared sense of national or societal identity that transcends narrow, exclusionary ideologies and theology.
This task is not an easy one; it demands a strong will, a clear sense of purpose, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It may necessitate making tough decisions, sitting in the tension of leadership and addressing underlying issues. Additionally, it involves promoting dialogue and fostering understanding among diverse communities with the goal of building bridges instead of erecting walls.
In essence, Fukuyama’s work in this book highlights the potential of identity as a force for positive change. When utilized as a tool for integration and unity rather than division and exclusion, it can be a powerful catalyst for building more inclusive and cohesive societies. It encourages us to explore how identity can be employed to create harmonious solutions to contemporary political and theological challenges.
[1] Francis Fukuyama, Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment. (New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 2020), 37
[2] Francis Fukuyama, Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment. (New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 2020), 183
[3] Francis Fukuyama, Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment. (New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 2020), 10
[4] YouTube. (2019, March 2). The hardest choices require the strongest wills. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0iXKPA4e1U
[5] Francis Fukuyama, Identity: The Demand for Dignity and the Politics of Resentment. (New York: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 2020), pp165-166
7 responses to “Thanos VS Thymos”
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Daron,
I enjoyed reading your post. The quote by Thanos about requiring strong-willed people is thought-provoking. What might that look like when so many identity groups are bunkered down behind their walls? How do you begin to build the bridges? Any examples?
Audrey!
Great question, I think it is going to require us as leaders to sit in the tension. We gotta be able to hear and address underlying issues that cause so many identity groups.
Ah, the great theologian, Thanos. Not sure how Fukuyama would have felt about the choice he made. Appreciate the quote though, because identity that builds inclusivity rather than division is a choice. And usually it means, in some sense, giving up something that we hold tightly or feel strongly about. Thanks for the post Daron!
Caleb,
I’m glad you also recognize the great theologian. I agree that Fukuyama may have disagreed with his methods.
Inclusivity rather than division is indeed a choice and inclusivity is the more challenging choice because it requires more work than dividing.
Daron,
Home run hit my friend. Well done!
Daron, not the Thanos reference I was expecting, although the Marvel villain certainly lives up to the name.
“Thanos, the theologian, said, “The hardest choices require the strongest wills.”
Thanos, Marvel villain, young Gamora asks, What did it cost?” and Thanos answers, “Everything.”
I wonder if there is something to learn from this villain. He was willing to give up everything for what he believed. How often are we willing to give up everything to follow the Cross? We say we will, but when it comes down to it, do we truly lay it all at the altar?
What is an inclusive narrative of identity that you cling on to?