Synopses & Reviews
- How do we define reality in our everyday lives?
- In what ways do social environments pattern our thoughts and emotions?
- How do social interactions influence our conceptions of self?
- What are the effects of social inequalities on our beliefs and emotions?
Self and Society explores the ways in which society, culture, and history affect how we define our experiences and ourselves. This Reader contains 24 essays divided into four topical sections: the social construction of reality, sociology of thought and emotions, the self in social context, and interaction and inequality. It also bridges analytical divides by including the views of both the interactionist and structural schools of social psychology. Students of sociology and identity will benefit greatly from this unique and inclusive collection of articles by some of the most noteworthy figures in the field.
Review
"
Self and Society is one of the best anthologies I have ever read. With its publication, Branaman establishes herself as a leader among scholarly anthologizers in sociology. The book is certain to become a favorite with scholars, students, and all others who simply want to read about the mysteries of the worlds between selves and societies."
Charles Lemert, Wesleyan University "Ann Branaman has given us a rich collection of essays that make clear the contribution of the sociological perspective on social psychology. Whether classical or contemporary, each essay is a gem. Focusing especially on the social construction of reality, the sociology of thought and emotions, interaction and inequality and the self in social context, this collection is a must read for all sociologists." Patricia Ticineto Clough, The Graduate Center of the City University of New York
Self and Society is a fantastic resource for anyone wishing to learn more about sociological social psychology. Melinda J. Milligian, Tulane University
Synopsis
Self and Society explores the ways in which society, culture, and history affect how we define our experiences and ourselves. This reader contains 24 essays divided into four topical sections: the social construction of reality, sociology of thought and emotions, the self in social context, and interaction and inequality.
About the Author
Ann Branaman teaches sociology at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. She is the co-editor of The Goffman Reader (Blackwell, 1997).
Table of Contents
List of Contributors.
Acknowledgments.
Editor's Introduction: Ann Branaman.
Part I: The Social Construction of Society.
Introduction.
1. On Being Sane in Insane Places: D. L. Rosenhan.
2. Self-Fulfilling Stereotypes: Mark Snyder.
3. Sluts and Studs: Peggy Orenstein.
4. Body Ritual Among the Nacirema: Horace Miner.
5. The Reality of Self-Esteem: John P. Hewitt.
6. Pricing the Priceless Child: Vivian A. Zelizer.
7. Goodness Personified: The Emergence of Gifted Children: Leslie Margolin.
Part II: The Sociology of Thought and Emotions.
Introduction.
8. A Sociological Framework of Cognition: Judith A. Howard.
9. The Meek Shall Not Inherit the Earth: L. Richard Della Fave.
10. Emotion Work, Feeling Rules, and Social Structure: Arlie Russell Hochschild.
11. Jealousy in American Culture: Gordon Clanton.
Part III: The Self in Social Context.
Introduction.
12. The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life: Erving Goffman.
13. The Production of Selves in Personal Relationships: Philip Blumstein.
14. Intimate Relationships from a Microstructural Perspective: Men Who Mother: Barbara J. Risman.
15. Social Structure and Self-Direction: A Comparative Analysis of the United States and Poland: Melvin Kohn and Kazimierz M. Slomczynski.
16. Salvaging the Self: David Snow and Leon Anderson.
17. The Real Self: From Institution to Impulse: Ralph H. Turner.
18. The Saturated Self: Kenneth Gergen.
Part IV: Interaction and Inequality.
Introduction.
19. Body Politics: Nancy M. Henley.
20. Status Structures: Cecilia L. Ridgeway and Henry A. Walker.
21. Attention for Sale: The Hidden Privileges of Class: Charles Derber.
22. Living With Racism: The Black Middle Class Experience: Joe R. Feagin and Melvin P. Sikes.
23. Hidden Power in Marriage: Aafke Komter.
24. The Velvet Glove: Mary Jackman.
Index