How Scottish People Identify Themselves in Scotland and Abroad
" "Have you ever noticed how different cultures have unique ways of identifying themselves? For example, Americans often treat "Being American" as a point of pride and frequently emphasize their nationality. In contrast, Scottish people in Scotland rarely feel the need to repeatedly highlight their identity. This article will explore the ways in which Scottish people identify themselves in different contexts, and delve into the cultural and social nuances that underpin this identity.
" "Scottish Identity in Scotland
" "Most Scotsmen I know call themselves by their full name, regardless of the context. Some popular names like Robert, Craig, Duncan, Alan, Hamish, Douglas, Angus, Bruce, James, Kenneth, Fergus, Malcolm, Alistair, and Callum are commonly used. These names are a product of traditional Scottish naming conventions, which often include patronymics and regional variations. Despite the diversity in names, the Scottish identity is rooted in a shared history, culture, and sense of place.
" "The Role of Location in Identity
" "When Scottish people are abroad, their identity often takes on a different form. In those situations, they are much more likely to refer to their immediate location or the nearest town or city, rather than claiming to be Scottish. This is primarily because people often try to integrate into the local culture and community. However, the core Scottish identity remains strong, even when they are not in their home country.
" "Cultural Nuances and Identity Dynamics
" "Identity can also be influenced by personal relationships and interactions. For instance, one of my Scottish friends always refers to himself as 'Mac,' even though his birth name is Robert. His full name is MacNeill, and 'Mac' is simply a shorter, more colloquial version of his surname. However, in no way should you call him Bob! This cultural motto underscores the importance of preserving one's heritage and the value of personal nicknames within Scottish culture.
" "Additionally, many Scots prefer to use their full names when interacting with others. For example, I may go by 'David' in Britain, but I proudly use my Scottish name, 'Greig,' in Scotland. This preference for using one's full name highlights the individual's pride in their Scottish heritage, even in an environment that might not recognize it as such.
" "The Change in Identity Abroad
" "My Scottish friend, Adrian, exemplifies the complexity of Scottish identity. In London, he goes by Adrian, but when he returns to Scotland, his friends and acquaintances call him by his full Scottish name, Calum. This shift underscores the importance of place in defining one's identity. In Scotland, he feels a strong sense of belonging and is more likely to be referred to by his Scottish name. Getting this wrong can lead to disapproval and may be seen as a sign of disrespect or ignorance.
" "Overall, Scottish identity is multifaceted and deeply rooted in place, history, and personal connections. While Scots may not consistently elevate their identity in everyday conversation, the cultural and personal significance of the names and places they use serves as a reminder of their heritage and roots.
" "So, next time you encounter a Scottish person, whether in a Scottish town or an international setting, take a moment to appreciate the nuances of their identity and the unique ways in which they choose to present themselves.