【Week 11.2 May 17(Fri)】——Cheng Yating

1) Summary

Symbolic interactionism is a sociological framework that emphasizes the importance of symbols and language in human interactions and social processes. Developed from the work of George Herbert Mead and furthered by scholars like Herbert Blumer, this theory focuses on the subjective meanings that individuals impose on objects, events, and behaviors. These meanings are created and modified through social interaction. Symbolic interactionism views society as constructed through ongoing social interactions where individuals continuously interpret and redefine their social reality. Key concepts in symbolic interactionism include: symbols, language, meaning, interaction, self and identity.

 

2) Interesting

One interesting aspect of symbolic interactionism is its focus on the micro-level of social interaction and how it shapes individual identity and society at large. Unlike macro-level theories that look at large-scale social structures and processes, symbolic interactionism offers a nuanced understanding of the everyday interactions that constitute the fabric of social life. An unusual but insightful idea is the concept of the "looking-glass self," proposed by Charles Cooley, which suggests that an individual's self-concept is shaped by their perception of how others view them.  This highlights the profound impact of social interactions on personal identity.

 

3) Question

While the theory is powerful in explaining micro-level interactions and individual behavior, its application to larger social phenomena and structural inequalities might be seen as limited. So how symbolic interactionism can be applied to understand and address social issues at a macro level.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

W3.1 March 18 (Mon) - Zhong Qi(종기)

1. Summary Scientific method is a method of acquiring knowledge, a systematic mode of thinking and a means of research, which is used to solve problems, explore laws and test theories. The key processes include observing phenomena, constructing hypotheses, planning experiments, collecting data, analyzing results, and summarizing conclusions. The scientific method focuses on proof and repeatability, using experiments and observations to test hypotheses during research, and adjusting or confirming theories based on data. 2. Mention of new, interesting The debate between postmodernism and modernism has been going on for a long time, and they have done a lot of research to carry out this debate. Although this problem has been solved with the efforts of scientists, it also shows that the development of anything is not static, and only continuous exploration can make better progress. 3. Discussion As the scientific method has evolved over the centuries to become authoritative, are there othe
Read more

W3.1 March 18 (Mon) - WANGRUITONG(왕서동)

  summarize The scientific method is not a single recipe. It requires intelligence, creativity and imagination. In this sense it is not a blind standard or procedure, but more a way of thinking that encourages us to remain open and critical, constantly challenging and validating existing theories. The scientific method is not a single recipe. It requires intelligence, creativity and imagination. In this sense it is not a blind standard or procedure, but more a way of thinking that encourages us to remain open and critical, constantly challenging and validating existing theories. About the points I learned 1. The scientific method is based on careful observation and rigorous skepticism. This means that scientists should not readily accept any ideas or assumptions, but should always question and think critically about observational data. 2.Scientific inquiry is not merely the pursuit of truth, but the process of shedding inhibited skepticism and establishing reliable beliefs. Scientific
Read more

W12.2 May 25 (Fri) - 계해운(JIHAIYUN)

 Summary: Social stratification is a multidimensional concept encompassing the impact of factors such as wealth, income, race, education, and occupation on individuals' social status. In modern Western societies, social stratification is typically divided into upper class, middle class, and lower class, with each class further subdivided into smaller categories. Social stratification is not only about quantitative inequalities but also involves beliefs and attitudes toward social status. Within complex social structures, there exist various stratification phenomena, with the most privileged individuals and families enjoying disproportionate access to income, power, and other social resources. Social mobility refers to the movement of individuals, social groups, or populations between or within layers of the stratification system. Open stratification systems allow for mobility between individuals, whereas closed systems have minimal mobility, with social status often remaining uncha
Read more