Symbolic Interactionism
Overview
Symbolic interactionism is a theoretical approach to understanding the nature of social interactions and relationships. It is a perspective that places emphasis on subjective meanings and the symbolic nature of social life. This approach is rooted in the philosophical tradition of pragmatism and was developed by American sociologists such as George H. Mead, Herbert Blumer, and Erving Goffman.
Theoretical Foundations
Symbolic interactionism is based on three core principles: meaning, language, and thought. These principles lead to conclusions about the creation of a person's self and socialization into a larger community.
Meaning
The principle of meaning states that humans act toward people and things based upon the meanings that they have given to those people or things. Symbolic interactionism holds the principal of meaning as central in human behavior.
Language
Language gives humans a means by which to negotiate meaning through symbols. Mead's influence on symbolic interactionism showed the development of individuals' selves through the use of language. Language is an important source of symbolism and greatly aids in the generation of meaning.
Thought
Thought modifies each individual's interpretation of symbols. Thought is a mental conversation that requires different points of view, which is shaped by language.
Development of Self
According to symbolic interactionism, the self is a fundamental aspect of social life that arises through communication and interaction. The self is not a static entity, but rather an active process of interpretation and re-interpretation of symbols.
Role-Taking
Role-taking is a key mechanism through which an individual can appreciate another person's perspective and better understand the social world. It involves stepping into another's shoes and seeing the world from their viewpoint.
The "I" and the "Me"
Mead conceptualized the self as composed of two parts - the "I" and the "Me". The "I" is the spontaneous, driving force of the self, while the "Me" is the reflective, socially conscious part of the self.
Criticisms and Limitations
While symbolic interactionism has been influential in the field of sociology, it has also faced criticisms. Critics argue that it overlooks macro-social structures and fails to acknowledge power inequalities. Furthermore, it has been criticized for its lack of testable hypotheses and overemphasis on the subjective aspect of social life.
Influence and Applications
Symbolic interactionism has been applied in various fields such as education, healthcare, and criminology. It has been used to understand topics such as socialization, group dynamics, identity, and deviant behavior.