preview

Understanding The Looking Glass Self

Satisfactory Essays

A wise sociologist once said, “In order to be -- or become -- fully human, humans need a great deal of proficiency at taking account of others and forming relationships with them.” Sociology teaches humans where we connect to different groups as well as classifying them into these groups. These classifications that we are assigned include, economic status level, education, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. By doing so, we perceive the view of ourselves and others in the world. The Looking Glass-Self allows us to see our interactions with others as well as what they expect from us according to our behavior (Verderber, 34). That is what sociology is; the study of society and social interaction.
Throughout our lives, we have learned and will still continue to learn how to function as a “normal” human being. What defines normal? Although there are many definitions to this word, one may define it as average. It all depends through the eye of the beholder which is filtered through the lens of society. What that means is, your definition of “normal” might not exist on its own, but it is created by observing the way of life through your own perspective and experiences. The way I see defining “normal” is through your own social behavior. When speaking to someone for the first time, the way you come off to others will make them decide whether you are normal or not. You are learning to create relationships by the culture that is formed around you. Culture teaches you and your

Get Access