Neoliberal Pragmatism/ Cultural Identity

Neoliberal Pragmatism: (New word-makes sense in context of the book)

Perhaps this refers to contemporary discussions surrounding neoliberal forms of education. While many people are finding that nontraditional, alternative forms of education are more effective and innovative, maybe what neoliberal pragmatism means is that we can still be innovative and practical in the more traditional space. Maybe training and systematic learning might be considered outdated now. But, in the name of practicality, traditional forms of education, what might be considered dry right now, might actually contribute to our neoliberalist, innovation-oriented goals in the long run.

Cultural Identity: (Two familiar words used in a new way together)

There is a sort of paradox in this word. Culture, on the one hand, often refers to groups or populations. And Identity often refers to individuality. Cultural Identity, therefore, implies that one identifies, at an individual level, with cultural characteristics and traits. This means that the individual accepts assumptions about their personalities and interests. While this might not be a bad thing, it does create a new understanding of what might constitute individual identity. Why is this distinction between culture, identity, and cultural identity important? Perhaps they create different outcomes. Perhaps they have different consequences in various situations.