Becoming

Definition

Becoming refers to the process of transformation and the dynamic nature of existence, emphasizing change over static being. In this context, it signifies a shift away from fixed identities and categories, focusing instead on the fluidity and multiplicity of experience that challenges conventional notions of identity and reality. Becoming allows for new possibilities and differences to emerge, showcasing the importance of continuous change in thought and existence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Becoming is central to Deleuze's philosophy, opposing traditional metaphysics that prioritizes being over becoming.
2. For Deleuze, becoming is not just a transition but an ongoing process that emphasizes continuous transformation and the potential for new identities.
3. In the context of difference, becoming is essential for understanding how new forms arise and how identities are constructed through interactions with others.
4. Becoming allows for the exploration of multiplicity, where one can embody various identities at different times rather than being confined to a singular identity.
5. The concept suggests that reality is not fixed but rather an open field of possibilities shaped by processes of becoming, which is fundamental in challenging established norms.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of becoming challenge traditional notions of identity?
  • The concept of becoming challenges traditional notions of identity by asserting that identities are not fixed or static but are constantly evolving and transforming. This idea suggests that individuals can embody multiple identities based on their experiences and interactions, rather than being limited to a singular definition. It opens up the possibility for new identities to emerge as people engage with their environments and each other, promoting a more fluid understanding of self.
• Discuss the relationship between becoming and differentiation in the context of Deleuzian thought.
  • In Deleuzian thought, becoming is closely related to differentiation as both concepts emphasize change and transformation. Differentiation allows distinct identities or forms to emerge from a more general state, while becoming focuses on the process through which these changes occur. Together, they highlight how new possibilities arise from existing conditions and challenge static categorizations, reinforcing the idea that identity is a dynamic interplay between various forces rather than a stable essence.
• Evaluate the implications of becoming for understanding reality as a process rather than a fixed state.
  • The implications of becoming for understanding reality as a process rather than a fixed state are profound. This perspective shifts our focus from viewing existence as static entities to recognizing it as a continuous flow of changes and possibilities. It encourages us to see reality as shaped by interactions, relationships, and ongoing transformations, which leads to a more nuanced comprehension of social dynamics, personal identity, and cultural practices. Ultimately, embracing becoming allows for a richer engagement with the complexities of life and acknowledges the inherent instability in all forms of existence.

Related terms

Differentiation: The process by which distinct identities or forms arise from a more general or uniform state, contributing to the idea of becoming by highlighting the emergence of new differences.

Rhizome:

A metaphor used to describe a non-hierarchical and interconnected structure of thought, where ideas and identities can develop and grow in multiple directions, much like how becoming operates.

Virtuality: The realm of potentiality and unactualized possibilities that exists alongside the actual; it represents what is possible in the process of becoming rather than what is presently realized.