Ethnic identification as a part of the Silesians' identity

Abstract

The article touches upon the issue of ethnic identification of Silesians. The problem is presented in terms of dynamics. The author first discusses the theoretical context for the notion of identification and ethnic identity. The concepts of E. Erikson and Ch. Cooley are presented. Among Polish sociologists, concepts of Z. Bokszański and K. Kłoskowska are set out. The concept of inequality of identity, formulated by Z. Bokszański, is assumed to be the most appropriate for the author’s considerations. The analysis of the formation of Silesians’ identity begins from mid-19th century, the period of industrialization of Upper Silesia. Ethnic identification of Silesian communities always crystallized in opposition to the foreign ones, in the sense of being dominated by a higher culture. During the reign of Prussia it was a German culture, after joining Silesia to Poland – Polish culture. During the period of real socialism, due to the major migrations and the mixing of the population, the importance of ethnic identification decreased. Current research conducted by the author show that ethnic identification plays an important role in Silesian communities. Silesian communities are inhabited by a significant proportion of people describing themselves as Silesians. This proportion is however diverse. It is lower in the cities, but fluctuates around 50%, whereas in small communities it reaches 90%. Silesian ethnic identification is primarily declared by people of indigenous origin, largely by those of mixed origin, and partly (about 20%) – incoming inhabitants.