Sociology and Social Identity Concepts

Sociology and Society

• Sociology is the scientific study of group interactions across varying scales, from small personal groups to large societies.
• A society consists of individuals in a defined geographic area who interact and share a common culture.
• Culture encompasses shared practices, values, beliefs, and the overall way of life within a group, including social rules.

The Self and Social Constructionism

• The self is characterized as separate, self-contained, independent, consistent, unitary, and private.
• Social constructionism emphasizes the intertwined nature of individual identity with social context; they are not easily separable.
• The self is dynamic, continuously influenced by participation in social life and interactions.

Marcel Mauss' Concept of the Self

• Mauss identified two aspects of self:
  • Moi: Represents an individual's basic identity.
  • Personne: Represents social definitions and expectations regarding identity.

Mead's Theory of the Social Self

• Learning occurs through observing others; this forms part of self-development.
• The "Looking Glass Self" concept suggests self-perception is shaped by internalizing others' views.
• Self-development follows three stages:
  • Language: Essential for self-expression and comprehension.
  • Play: Involves role-playing and embodying the perspectives of others.
  • Game: Integrates awareness of societal rules into self-concept.

Active Process of Self

• Mead proposes that self-identity is an active process influenced by social interactions, not merely a reflection of society.
• Distinction between "I" (self-perception) and "Me" (how others perceive us).

Vygotsky's View on Self-Development

• Emphasizes the role of real-life dialogues in shaping a child's internalization of identity through interactions with caregivers and peers.

Core Values of Kapwa

• Ibang-tao: Recognition of others as separate individuals.
• Hindi ibang tao: Acknowledgment of close relationships and shared identity.

Additional Cultural Concepts

• Kapwa: The essence of shared identity.
• Hiya: Represents shame or social awareness.
• Utang na loob: Emphasizes reciprocity and indebtedness.
• Pakikisama and Pakikipagkapwa: Reflects smooth interpersonal relationships.
• Bahala na: Expresses a sense of fatalistic passiveness.
• Lakas ng loob: Signifies courage.
• Pakikibaka: Refers to active struggle or confrontations in social contexts.