SOC 2109 Lecture Notes - Online Identity, Impression Management, Erving Goffman
Document Summary
The self is the individual viewed as both the source and the object of reflexive behavior. The self is active (initiates reflexive behavior) and passive (object toward whom reflexive behavior is directed) The active aspect of the self is the i and the object of self-action is the me. The self is the source of action when we plan, observe and control our own behavior. The self is the object of action when we think about who we are. Mead portrays action as guided by an internal dialogue. People engage in conversations in their minds as they regulate their behavior. They use words and images to symbolize their ideas about themselves, others their actions and other"s responses to them. There are three capacities human beings must acquire in order to engage in action: See themselves and their own actions as if through others eyes. Use a symbol system or language for inner thought.
