Symbolic Interactionism Flashcards
What is symbolic interactionism?
MICRO level theory that focuses on the interaction of people between individuals and society
Who is George Mead?
- One of the founders of symbolic interactionism
- the self is produced through social experiences
Who is Georg Simmel?
sociologist who looked at small groups and conflict and how they helped reinforce society
The Definition of the Situation
W.I Thomas, people act in given circumstances on the basis of the way that they define the situation they are in
The Thomas Theorem
the interpretation of a situation causes the action
Self-fulfilling Prophesies
- a belief that comes true because we are acting as if it is already true
- ex: bank failures during the great depression
Signs given
things we intend (the way we dress, speak)
Sign given off
things that actually appear (not intended)
Front stage performance
- actions consistent with the role we’re performing
- for public consumption
Back stage performance
- acting against the expectations of your own role
- closer to real self
Team performances
people understanding each others roles and goals to create an impression on an audience
What was Harold Garfinkel’s approach?
- Ethnomethodology: perspective that employs practical reasoning to everyday situations
- can discover social order by disrupting it
How is society possible? : Symbolic perspective
Society is created and maintained by individuals in meaningful interaction with eachother
Relationship between individual & social structure: Symbolic perspective
- Upward and downward
- Social structure created by people
- Social structure outlives people
Three characteristics of Postmodern Society
- Shrinking of space and time
- Style and consumption
- Risk society
