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European Journal of Social Theory
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The Sacralization of Memory

Barbara A. Misztal

UNIVERSITY OF LEICESTER, UK

This article argues that today’s search for identity, in the context of the rise of a new spirituality and the decline of authoritative memories, facilitates the forging of a new connection between soul and memory and enhances the importance of traumatic memories. Consequently, we witness the sacralization of memory which in unsettled times, when memories tend to become fixed and frozen, can undermine intergroup cooperation. The article asserts that an ethical burden, prompted by viewing memory as the surrogate of the soul and the overrating of the importance of the politics of identity, can result in the displacement of public concerns with private ones. It stresses a need to rethink what kind of memory is compatible with a just, pluralist and cohesive democratic system.

Key Words: identity • memory • politics • sacralization • soul

European Journal of Social Theory, Vol. 7, No. 1, 67-84 (2004)
DOI: 10.1177/1368431004040020
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 European Journal of Social TheoryHome page
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 American Behavioral ScientistHome page
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American Behavioral Scientist, June 1, 2005; 48(10): 1320 - 1338.
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