PHILOSOPHY

HOW CAN ONE IDENTIFY WITH A STATE?
A state is a means of rule over a defined or “sovereign” territory. Identity in a layman’s view is whatever makes something the same or different but in philosophy, identity (sameness) is whatever makes an entity definable and recognizable; in terms of possessing a set of qualities that distinguish it form other entities of different group. In identifying oneself with the state there are some factors to note.
Firstly, when an individual contributes to the state. When an individuals pays taxes, levies, engages in community work, share ideas, write articles to be published (S) he feels part of the state since(s) he contributes to the development of the state.
Secondly, when one feels the state cares for his well – being. Individuals in a state contribute in several ways to the development of the state and as such expect the state to care for his or her well – being. Naturally, one does not benefit from his or her contribution (S) he does not even want to be associated with that institution. For instance when one contributes or registers for National Health Insurance and is not given adequate attention when (s) he is sick then there is the probability that the person would not want to even make such contributions or payment again.
Thirdly, through citizenship an individual can identify him or herself with the state. For instance, the 1992 constitution of Ghana outlines how an individual can identify him or herself with the state(Ghana). In Chapter Three Article 6,7,8,9,10 provides means (in summary) such as naturalization, birth , honorary gesture, adoption, descent, foundling, marriage and registration to which one can identify itself to the state.
Finally, one can identify him or herself to the state when one contributes to the state, when one feels the state cares his or her well being and through citizenship.