THE CONSTRUCTION OF MAINLAND CHINESE IDENTITY IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

This thesis is a study on the construction of Mainland Chinese identity in Singapore by examining the relationship between the Singapore Chinese and the Mainland Chinese. It will show that identity construction must be examined within specific contexts for there is no fixed and universal identity. In addition the relationship between the two groups of Chinese is structured by an unseen hierarchy. This hierarchy is based on the perception of differential possession of cultural, political and economic resources. Moreover, this is not a fixed power structure. Both the Mainland Chinese and the Singapore Chinese try to construct the other's identity as similar to or different from itself so as not to be the subordinated party in this dynamic power relationship. Furthermore, this hierarchical structure is very much affected by social, political and economic changes in the wider society. Thus this study will stress upon the construction of identity not only by the actors themselves, but by the forces in the wider society. Specifically I am referring to the role of the government in Singapore, the media and the economic and ideological environment that we are being surrounded by in the present moment.