Asked by Sarah Taylor on Jul 08, 2024
Verified
Outline Mead's view of the development of the self. How would a functionalist or a conflict theorist evaluate Mead's view?
Mead's View
A perspective in sociology that emphasizes the importance of society in the development of individual self and identity, particularly through the process of symbolic interaction.
Development of the Self
A psychological process involving the evolution of an individual's sense of identity, personality, and distinctiveness over time.
- Acquire knowledge of the theoretical outlooks on socialization, involving functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist theories.
- Distinguish and comprehend the functions of the significant other and the generalized other within the context of social development.
Verified Answer
From a functionalist perspective, Mead's view of the development of the self would be evaluated as a necessary and beneficial process for the functioning of society. Functionalists would argue that the development of the self through social interaction and communication helps individuals learn to conform to societal norms and values, which ultimately contributes to social stability and order. They would see Mead's emphasis on the role of socialization in shaping the self as a key factor in maintaining social cohesion.
On the other hand, a conflict theorist would evaluate Mead's view as a reflection of the power dynamics and inequalities present in society. They would argue that the development of the self is not a neutral process, but rather one that is shaped by the dominant ideologies and interests of those in power. Conflict theorists would critique Mead's theory for not adequately addressing how social structures and inequalities influence the development of the self, and for not considering the ways in which individuals may resist or challenge societal norms and values.
In conclusion, Mead's view of the development of the self emphasizes the role of social interaction and communication in shaping individual identity. While functionalists would see this as a necessary process for maintaining social order, conflict theorists would critique it for not addressing power dynamics and inequalities in society.
Learning Objectives
- Acquire knowledge of the theoretical outlooks on socialization, involving functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist theories.
- Distinguish and comprehend the functions of the significant other and the generalized other within the context of social development.
Related questions
According to _____ Theory, People Internalize the Role Expectations That ...
According to the Functionalist Perspective, the Internalization of Societal Values ...
Compare and Contrast the Functionalist, Conflict, and Symbolic Interactionist Perspectives ...
Mead's Term for the Compilation of Attributes That We Associate ...
How Are Feral Children Illustrative of C ...