Understanding The Self Lesson 2: The Self, Society, and Culture

Summary

This lesson discusses the relationship between the self, society, and culture, focusing on how culture shapes individual identity. Key concepts of the self, such as being separate, self-contained, consistent, unitary, and private, are explained. The lesson also explores how societal and cultural influences, including family, language, and gender, shape self-development. Theories by Marcel Mauss, Mead, and Vygotsky highlight the role of social interaction and language in shaping the self. Finally, the lesson emphasizes the importance of personal discovery and the distinction between sex and gender in developing one's identity.

Takeaways

• 📚 The lesson focuses on the relationship between the self, society, and culture.
• 🧠 The self is characterized by being separate, self-contained, consistent, unitary, and private.
• 🌍 Society and culture play a significant role in shaping the self.
• 🔄 The self is influenced by different institutions in society, and its characteristics can be consistent over time.
• 👤 Marcel Mauss defines the self with two aspects: the 'moi' (biological self) and the 'person' (social self).
• 🗣 Language, as part of culture, plays a vital role in the development of the self and is a major predictor of self-concept.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Families and their environment strongly influence the formation and development of the self.
• 📜 The social world, including gender roles and expectations, also significantly impacts the self.
• 🔑 Gender is a personal discovery and should not be dictated by society, as it can affect one's mental health if constrained.
• 👫 Gender and sex are distinct: sex is biological, while gender is a personal identity that can be chosen.

Q & A

What are the main objectives of Lesson 2: The Self, Society, and Culture?

The main objectives are: 1) Explain the relationship between the self, society, and culture; 2) Describe how society and culture shape the self; 3) Compare how the self is influenced by different societal institutions; 4) Examine one's self in relation to different views of the self discussed in class.

What are the five characteristics of the self as mentioned in the script?

The five characteristics are: 1) Separate (distinct from other selves), 2) Self-contained (independent with its own thoughts and characteristics), 3) Consistent (characteristics remain relatively stable), 4) Unitary (the center of one's experiences), and 5) Private (thoughts and feelings are personal and inaccessible to others).

What does 'separate' mean in the context of the self?

'Separate' means that the self is distinct and unique from other selves, having its own identity. Each person’s sense of self is different from others.

How does culture affect the self according to Marcel Mauss?

Marcel Mauss states that the self has two aspects: 'Moi' (biological aspect, such as physical appearance) and 'Personne' (social aspect, shaped by societal roles and expectations). Culture affects the self through these lenses, with language being a major factor in shaping the self.

How does language influence the self in different regions of the Philippines?

Language influences self-identity through regional differences. For example, people in Luzon may speak Tagalog and enjoy OPM music, while in Visayas, people speak Visaya and prefer a mix of genres like rap. These linguistic differences also shape cultural identities.

What role does family play in shaping the self?

Family plays a crucial role in shaping the self. The environment a child grows up in, whether spiritual, resource-rich, or economically challenged, affects the child's development and sense of self. The family provides the foundation for learning social interactions and values.

How do Mead and Vygotsky explain the relationship between language and the development of the self?

Mead and Vygotsky believe that language acquisition and interaction with others are essential to the development of the self. Language shapes how we experience the world and interact with others, which in turn shapes our sense of self.

What is the difference between sex and gender according to the script?

Sex is assigned at birth based on biological traits (male or female), whereas gender is something that individuals can choose, reflecting personal identity rather than biological assignment.

Why is it dangerous for society to dictate an individual's gender identity?

It is dangerous because forcing someone to conform to societal expectations about gender can harm their mental health, causing psychiatric disorders or emotional distress. Gender identity should be personally discovered, not dictated by external pressures.

What does the script suggest about digital languages and their effect on the self?

Digital languages, such as abbreviations and slang used in online communication, are considered new forms of language that also shape the self. As individuals engage with these digital languages, they influence how they perceive themselves and interact with society.