SOC 233 Lecture Notes - Symbolic Interactionism, Erving Goffman
Document Summary
The way meaning is socially constructed on a small scale (e. g. , greeting, face-to-face interaction). 3 premises of categorization: categorize similar experiences. Based on unconscious and conscious experiences: order and regularity. Eg) how we define a mother has regularity; often perceived as a nurturing, compassionate person who cares for children: meaning to categories. Identifications, social meanings and social characteristics based upon the category or role. Eg) when we meet somebody for the first time, we open up categorizations; ways in which we can identify people. Used to alter the way we interact based upon categories. Focus on the way in which individuals (i. e. , social actors) consciously act, rather than simply react to social stimulation. The way in which different social actors interpret the behaviour of others. Focus on meaning people give to behaviour, and how people interpret the meaning of behaviour. Humans are social, creative and have the ability for reflection; capacity for thought.
