In-between worlds : becoming and being a cosmopolitan

Abstract

<p>Despite changes in politics, policies and attitudinal climate, cosmopolitans, citizens of the world, form a growing group of individuals, who are voluntarily on the move from country to country, pursuing self-fulfilment in life and work. This chapter sheds light on the process of becoming and being a cosmopolitan by studying the cosmopolitan individuals and their lived experiences. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have investigated global migration and its links to international business, but most of the attention has been given to assigned expatriates or elite travellers. This study seeks to expand our knowledge by studying those who migrate – usually multiple times – for their own initiative and personal growth. The empirical data for our research originates from a qualitative study of Finnish- born cosmopolitans. The interviewees’ life courses and identities were investigated retrospectively and analysed with the help of social identity maps. The findings of our study show that cosmopolitan orientation does not require international exposure or experiences, and it can emerge already prior migration and first move abroad. The chapter also elaborates on the cosmopolitan characteristics and illustrates the cosmopolitans’ perspectives on work. In a broader sense, the findings are suggested to contribute to the on-going debate on cosmopolitan identity formation and the state of liminality. Based on the findings presented in this study, it is evident that these individuals possess attitudes and competences that are needed in the multicultural and constantly shape-shifting global environment.<br></p>