‘Masters and Novices’: Socialization and Social Learning through the NATO Parliamentary Assembly

Abstract

This article explores the process of identity constructions in Central and Eastern Europe through democracy promotion in NATO-PA. Utilizing social group theory and social identity theory, the article is concerned with the processes of socialization and social learning taking place at the agent level, which seem to explain how in-groups and outgroups are formed, and whyagents want to belong to the in-group. It is assumed that the complex process of new identity constructions as part of the effort of joining the dominant in-group cannot be explained purely by reference to the usual theory of the agent based on rationality, but that it has more to do with less tangible factors such as positive self-esteem and a desire to belong to a positively valued in-group.