The Index of Identity Group Institutionalization: A New Tool to Quantify the Institutionalization of Identity Groups in Democratic Societies

Abstract

The current work develops an index of Identity Group Institutionalization (or IGI Index) as a rejoinder to the absence of comprehensive, contemporary, replicable methodology relevant to minority groups' relations to the state and society. The IGI Index is a means to quantify the institutionalization of minority population groups in democratic states. It draws from theory and methodology on political party and system institutionalization in political science, and from advances in identity group organization in sociology. Intended for empirical use, the Index contains Dimensions, Criteria, Indicators, and Questions to be answered through the use of various sources. The methodology, versatility, and accuracy of the Index are tested on dissimilar identity groups: Francophones in Toronto in 2013 and Jews in Montreal in 1905-1920. The Index's contribution to research on identity groups' place in state and society is acutely important in today's environment of increased global diversity and migration, coupled with increased reconsideration and rescindment of established minority accommodation norms and policies in Western states.