Bildung and identity. Introduction

Abstract

Our article introduces the key concepts of Bildung and identity and their underlying theories. We understand Bildung as an open and creative process of self-reflection and self-questioning; therefore, Bildung is more than the idea of learning; neither should it be reduced to the idea of professional training. Similar to this understanding of Bildung, we regard the notion of personal identity as a never-ending process – identity cannot be possessed, it is constantly created and re-created in the sense of 'doing identity'. Both concepts are interdependent as Bildung plays a pivotal role for both individual and collective identity formation. It is precisely because of this interdependence that Bildung and identity are paramount to Teacher Education.