Wardale discusses different perspective theories on the relationship between identity and writing in the workplace. She discusses how Socio-theoretical perspectives believe that identity is “construction of the various signifying practices . . . formed by the various discourses, sign systems”. I agree with this statement because I also believe identity has multiple pieces to consider when discussing the topic of identity. How I understand discourses and sign systems would be what lifestyle an individual lived by and how they understand what is said when they’re engaging in conversation.
Like other postmodern theories, socio-historical theories considered identity to be a subject. Socio-theorists “provide specific tools for analyzing the “levers” within institutions, allowing for a detailed examination of power and the formation of subject positions”. By this I believe Wardale is referring to determining factors for the position and power identity hold. I believe that the “levers” within the communities include the environment you are in, and people you surround yourself with. Then, the type of conversations you have, when and where you engage in certain conversations, and your identity as a whole would be affected.
Activity theorist David Russell argued the importance of the relationship between writing and identity. This is a much needed relationship because to be able to write to your fullest potential and understand it as well, you need to know yourself. Being able to put words on a paper and make them come together cohesively is a skill that takes time and thought. You need to understand the type of person you are and what your way of speaking/thinking is. Understanding who you are will help you understand how to effectively express yourself or get your point across literally.
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