Abstract
Our perception of a South African identity has been constructed through multiple nationbuilding discourses, and continues to be the subject of political debate well into the democratisation of South Africa. The overall image which emerges from the literature makes the argument that “South Africans” only exist insofar as they were created by the nationalist rhetoric; thus, growing political discontent is reflected in their attitudes. South Africa’s bornfree generation is beginning to express the opinion that the dream of a Rainbow Nation has failed them, yet despite this, they continue to demonstrate a sense of national identity. This study, through the use of photovoice methods, aimed to explore born-frees’ constructions and perceptions of a South African identity. This study used a social constructionist thematic analysis approach which was enhanced by the Foucauldian principles of Governmentality, to explore the born-free generation’s constructions of a national identity and to understand their sense of trust in government. The findings of the study suggested that the participants viewed South African society as a divided one. Although they described the impact of nation-building discourses, both the rainbow nation and unity-through-sport, as having existed in the past, they spoke of it as a disingenuous sentiment that has faded with the passing of President Nelson Mandela. They described a marginalising culture of ethnic and cultural identification which remains untransformed.
M.A. (Psychology)