Understanding the Self - The Self, Society and Culture (2021)

Summary

This video explores the intricate relationship between the self, society, and culture. It defines the self as distinct, self-contained, independent, consistent, unitary, and private. The script discusses how society and culture shape the self through various social roles and institutions like family, school, and community. It also touches on the debate between nature and nurture in human development, emphasizing the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. The video concludes by highlighting the influence of culture on self-concept and the potential for society to aid in personal growth, encouraging viewers to consider how they can positively utilize societal influences.

Takeaways

• 😀 The self is defined by its distinctness, self-contained nature, independence, consistency, and privacy.
• 🏡 The family is the most influential social group that shapes an individual's self-concept from an early age.
• 🏫 Schools and academic environments significantly contribute to the development of one's social self and worldviews.
• 🌐 Communities play a large role in shaping an individual's social self by influencing beliefs and behaviors.
• 🌟 The self is capable of morphing and fitting into different circumstances, demonstrating adaptability.
• 🔄 There is an ongoing debate about the contributions of genetic inheritance (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) to human development.
• 🌱 Both nature and nurture are recognized as critical in human development, with their interactions influencing the self throughout life.
• 🌐 Culture is learned and not inborn, with individuals acquiring cultural traits through enculturation from family, surroundings, and friends.
• 🎭 Individuals play different roles in society, such as student, sibling, or neighbor, which can influence their self-concept.
• 🌟 The influence of culture and society on the self can be both positive and negative, depending on the cultural context.

Q & A

What are the key characteristics of the self as discussed in the video?

The self is characterized by being separate, self-contained and independent, consistent, unitary, and private. It is distinct from others, has its own thoughts and volition, does not require other selves to exist, has an enduring personality, is the center of all experiences, and is isolated from the external world.

How does society shape the self according to the video?

Society shapes the self through various institutions such as family, schools, and communities. These institutions influence one's worldview, values, choices, decisions, and behaviors, and contribute to the development of the social self.

What is the concept of 'increasing flux' mentioned in the video?

'Increasing flux' refers to the idea that the self is in a constant state of change and adaptation to external realities. It suggests that individuals are flexible and can adjust or resist societal norms and expectations, playing different roles depending on their circumstances.

How does the video explain the role of family in shaping the self?

The video emphasizes that family is the most pervasive and influential social group that impacts the self throughout its development. Family influences one's views, values, decision-making, and habits, and is the initial social group that an individual belongs to.

What is the debate regarding the contributions of genetic inheritance and environmental factors to human development mentioned in the video?

The debate, often referred to as 'nature versus nurture,' discusses the relative contributions of genetic factors (nature) and environmental factors (nurture) to human development. The video suggests that both play critical roles and interact throughout an individual's life.

How does the video define culture and its impact on the self?

Culture is defined as learned and not inborn. It influences the self by shaping beliefs, values, and behaviors through enculturation. The influence of culture can be positive or negative depending on the type of culture one is brought up in.

What role do schools play in the development of the self according to the video?

Schools contribute to the development of the social self by expanding worldviews and exposing individuals to diverse social learning environments. They help in forming ideologies and social behaviors that align with societal standards.

How does the video discuss the concept of gender in relation to the self?

The video briefly touches on gender as an important aspect of how individuals see themselves in the world. It suggests that gender is related to societal and cultural norms and influences the self-concept of an individual.

What is the significance of the self being unitary and private as explained in the video?

Being unitary means that the self is the center of all experiences, making it the core of an individual's thoughts, emotions, and actions. Being private implies that the self is isolated from the external world, living within its own world, which contributes to the uniqueness and individuality of the self.

How can the self influence society and vice versa as discussed in the video?

The video suggests a reciprocal relationship where the self is influenced by society and can also influence it. Individuals can develop themselves within society and contribute to its development, while society provides the context and resources for personal growth.

What does the video suggest about the malleability of the self?

The video suggests that the self is malleable, meaning it is flexible and can adjust to different circumstances. This malleability allows individuals to adapt to societal changes and play various roles as needed.