Understanding the Self in Group 1

Learning Objectives

• Discuss representations and conceptualizations of self from various disciplinary perspectives.
• Examine factors influencing the development of self and identity.
• Compare how the self is represented across different disciplines.
• Develop a theory of self through reflective analysis.

Anthropology

• Derived from Greek words: "anthropos" (human) and "logos" (reason), and New Latin "anthropologia" (study of humanity).
• Focuses on understanding human evolution, cultural aspects, and differentiation among humans.
• Anthropology is essentially "humans studying humans."

Culture

• Defined by E.B. Tylor as a complex whole encompassing beliefs, practices, values, and more.
• People's way of life, influenced by processes and structures sustaining culture.

Cultural Influences on the Self

• Material Component: Tangible items inherited from past generations.
• Cognitive Component: Ideas, knowledge, beliefs, and values.
• Normative Component: Standards of behavior known as social norms, which can be formal or informal.
  • Formal Norms: Established rules that maintain societal balance.
  • Informal Norms: Casual behaviors learned through observation and socialization.

Types of Norms

• Folkways: Everyday behaviors that do not incur serious consequences upon violation.
• Mores: Norms embodying moral views, with violations leading to serious repercussions.

Mechanisms of Cultural Change

• Cultural Borrowing: Adoption of traits from one society to another.
• Culture Lag: Time needed for a new cultural item to be accepted.
• Xenocentrism: Preference for traits from other cultures, sometimes excessive usage.
• Culture Shock: Discomfort experienced when transitioning to a different cultural environment.
• Xenophobia: Fear or hatred of perceived cultural differences.
• Ethnocentrism: Belief in the superiority of one's own culture.
• Acculturation: Transfer of values and customs between groups.

Nature of Culture

• Culture is learned, shared, integrated, and dynamic.

Concept of Self in Anthropology

• The self is molded by cultural contexts, reflected through societal norms and practices.
• Cultural psychologists identify two constructs:
  • Independent Construct: Characteristic of individualistic cultures, focusing on personal attributes.
  • Interdependent Construct: Typical of collectivist cultures, emphasizing connections among individuals.
• Cultural factors significantly influence achievement, relationships, emotions, and personality traits.

Perspectives on the Self

• Egocentric Concept: Individuals seen as unique, independent from others.
• Sociocentric Concept: Self defined by social context, emphasizing shared characteristics.

Dual Aspects of Self

• Katherine Ewing describes the self as a composite of physical, psychological, and social attributes.
• Joseph LeDoux contrasts explicit (consciously aware) and implicit (subconscious) aspects of self, highlighting its dynamic nature influenced by various life experiences.

Self as Representation

• Ewing posits the self is illusory, with multiple self-representations shaped by cultural concepts and personal histories.
• Individuals adapt self-concepts based on contextual shifts, maintaining a sense of continuity despite changes.

This quiz explores various representations and conceptualizations of the self from different disciplinary perspectives. Participants will examine factors that shape self-identity and compare contrasting views on the self. Ideal for students looking to deepen their understanding of self-concept and its influences.