Lecture on Goffman's Dramaturgical Theory and Presentation of Self

Introduction

• Reference to Shakespeare: "All the world's a stage"
• Humans as actors in social interactions
• Irving Goffman, a sociologist, interprets human behavior through a dramaturgical lens

Goffman's Dramaturgical Analysis

• Concept of masks and roles:
  • People display a series of masks to enact roles
  • Control and stage how we appear to others
  • Aim to present ourselves in the best light
• Roles vary based on situations and interactions:
  • Adaptation of self depending on interaction context
  • Awkward situations highlight role conflicts, such as encounters with different social groups

Key Ideas

• No true self behind the roles:
  • Goffman argues against a fixed psychological identity
  • Roles are essentially the performer
• Challenge to the notion of a core character or identity

Goffman's Influence

• Author of "The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life"
• Impact on understanding of human social interactions

Conclusion

• Goffman's work suggests a fluid, adaptable self
• The analogy with acting is limited, emphasizing lack of a singular true self behind roles

[Note: The transcript cuts off abruptly, indicating more content may have been discussed in the lecture.]