Understanding the Self: Sociological Perspective

Key Points:

• Sociological Self vs. Philosophical Self
  • Philosophical self focuses on internally reflected meaning: "Who am I?"
  • Sociological self focuses on external aspects: "The self as a social construct".
  • Society shapes our identity; examples include gender roles as social constructs.

Learning Outcomes:

• Recognize sociology's views on self-understanding.
• Understand self as a product of socialization.
• Explain theories of the social self.
• Discuss self in modern/postmodern society.
• Appreciate social experiences in self-understanding.

Concepts:

• Self as a Product of Social Interaction
  • Self is not present at birth; it develops through social experiences.
  • Without social interaction, one cannot develop a sense of self.
  • Example: Feral children lack social interaction and thus lack a sense of self.

Theories of the Social Self:

• Charles Horton Cooley: The Looking Glass Self

  • Self-perception is influenced by interactions with others.
  • Perceptions are subjective and may lead to misinterpretations.
  • Negative self-image can develop from unfavorable judgments by others.

• George Herbert Mead: The I and Me

  • "I" is the subjective, active side responding to experiences.
  • "Me" is the objective side, representing learned societal attitudes and expectations.
  • Full self-development occurs when "I" and "Me" are united.

Modern and Postmodern Society:

• Self in Postmodern Society

  • Jerry Lanuza: Self-identity changes with societal demands, technology, globalization.
  • More freedom in self-identity, less restricted by traditions.
  • Societal influences like consumerism can shape self-identity.
  • Issues such as alienation can arise due to globalization and loss of traditions.

• Influences on Self-Identity

  • Prestige symbols and consumer goods influence self-identity.
  • Advertising and mass media encourage consumerism.
  • Postmodern society leads to insatiable consumerism, impacting self-perception.

Challenges in Postmodern Society:

• Opportunities for self-cultivation vs. problems like alienation, dehumanization.
• Freedom allows for diversified identity but may also lead to isolation.
• Prestige and consumer goods can distort self-identity.

Conclusion:

• The sociological perspective emphasizes that the self is shaped by external, societal influences.
• Understanding and balancing personal desires with societal expectations is crucial for self-development.

Discussion:

• Reflect on how societal perceptions influence your own self-identity.
• Consider how postmodern influences may shape your self-perception and consumer habits.