Any potential resolution to the conflict in Northern ireland depends o
n the deconstruction of the stereotypical ethnic distinction between C
atholic/Nationalist/Republican and Protestant/Unionist/British and ass
ociated notions of zero-sum territoriality. This paper discusses some
of the evidence for more diverse, pluralist and inclusive conceptualiz
ations of identity, which might be reflected in accommodationist polit
ical alignments. Particular attention is given to the influence of cla
ss and to the fracturing of identity into its constituents of politica
l allegiance, citizenship, cultural or ethnic nationalism and constitu
tional preference, all of which are not necessarily expressed coherent
ly or consistently within any one individual's socio-political behavio
ur. The paper concludes that there are indications-albeit very diverse
-of accommodationism, but that these are not yet reflected in any cohe
rent political form.