Erving Goffman

Definition

Erving Goffman was a Canadian sociologist and a key figure in the field of performance studies, particularly known for his work on the presentation of self in everyday life. His ideas emphasize the notion that social interactions are performed, suggesting that individuals manage their impressions in various social contexts, which connects deeply to concepts of identity, roles, and societal norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Goffman's book 'The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life' published in 1959 laid the foundation for understanding how individuals perform roles in their daily interactions.
2. He introduced the concept of 'front stage' and 'back stage' behavior, highlighting how individuals behave differently depending on their audience.
3. Goffman's work explores how societal expectations shape individual identities and the roles people adopt within different social contexts.
4. His analysis of stigma in 'Stigma: Notes on the Management of Spoiled Identity' examines how individuals cope with social stigma and manage their identities.
5. Goffman’s theories are foundational for understanding social interaction, and his ideas influence disciplines such as psychology, communication studies, and cultural studies.

Review Questions

• How does Goffman's concept of dramaturgy enhance our understanding of everyday social interactions?
  • Goffman's concept of dramaturgy compares social interactions to theatrical performances, where individuals present themselves based on the expectations of their audience. This framework helps us understand that our behavior is often a strategic performance aimed at creating specific impressions. By viewing interactions as performances, we can better appreciate the complexities of identity management and the influences of context on our roles.
• In what ways do Goffman's ideas about impression management connect to contemporary discussions about social media and identity?
  • Goffman's ideas about impression management are highly relevant in the age of social media, where individuals curate their online identities to influence how they are perceived. Just as Goffman suggested people adjust their behaviors based on context, social media platforms allow users to present selective aspects of themselves. This raises important questions about authenticity, self-representation, and the pressures of maintaining a desired image in an increasingly public arena.
• Evaluate Goffman's contribution to understanding performance in politics and propaganda, considering his theories on identity and interaction.
  • Goffman's contributions significantly inform our understanding of performance in politics and propaganda by illustrating how political figures craft their public personas to elicit specific responses from the audience. His theories highlight that political discourse is often performative; politicians manage impressions to secure support and legitimacy. Additionally, propaganda utilizes similar techniques, manipulating narratives to shape public perception. By analyzing these performances, we gain insight into how identity and interaction play crucial roles in political engagement and influence.

Related terms

Dramaturgy:

A sociological perspective introduced by Goffman that compares social interaction to theatrical performance, where individuals present themselves in ways suitable for their social audience.

Impression Management:

The process by which individuals attempt to influence how they are perceived by others through controlling their behavior and presentation.

Face Work: The efforts individuals make to maintain their own and others' self-esteem and social dignity during interactions, often discussed in Goffman's work.