The Creation of the Real World: Everyday Interactions and Social Realization
Aim Statement
The aim of this essay is to explore how we make the real world through everyday interactions. Drawing on concepts from sociologists such as Erving Goffman and Paulo Freire, as well as our lecture material, this essay will examine the process of social realization and the role of social information and knowledge in this process. Through concrete examples, it will demonstrate how the commonality of social information influences our actions and interactions in the world.
Understanding “Realize”
To understand how we make the real world, we must first clarify the meaning of the term “realize” in this context. In this essay, “realize” refers to the process by which we bring something into existence or make it a reality through our actions and interactions. It involves the transformation of an idea, concept, or belief into a tangible experience or observable phenomenon.
To illustrate this point, let us consider the example of Halloween. Halloween exists as an abstract concept in our collective consciousness, derived from cultural traditions and popular media. However, it is through our collective actions and interactions that Halloween is realized. We put on costumes, decorate our houses, and participate in trick-or-treating. Through these practices, we bring Halloween to life, making it a tangible experience that is shared and understood by others.
The Role of Social Information and Knowledge
Doing everyday life requires us to carry around and use a vast amount of social information and knowledge. This includes understanding social norms, institutions, practices, and the meanings attributed to people, places, and things. Without this social information and knowledge, our actions would lack meaning and coherence.
Using social information and knowledge is essential for realizing and reinforcing anything. It provides us with a framework within which we can interpret and make sense of our experiences. For example, when we engage in the practice of “student-ting,” we draw upon our understanding of what it means to be a student, the expectations placed upon us, and the norms governing student behavior. This knowledge guides our actions and helps us navigate the social world.
The significance of much social information being taken as “common” sense and knowledge lies in its ability to shape our actions and interactions. Common knowledge acts as a shared language that allows us to communicate effectively with others. By relying on commonly understood meanings and norms, we can coordinate our behavior and engage in social interactions smoothly.
For instance, consider the act of shaking hands when meeting someone for the first time. This gesture is widely recognized as a sign of respect and friendliness in many cultures. By conforming to this social norm, we signal our willingness to engage in a positive interaction. The commonality of this knowledge ensures that individuals can easily interpret and respond to such signals, facilitating social cohesion.
Examples of Social Information in Action
Concrete examples further illustrate the role of social information in shaping our actions and interactions. Take the institution of marriage, for instance. Marriage is not simply a legal contract; it carries deep symbolic meaning in society. The expectations associated with marriage, such as fidelity and commitment, are ingrained in our collective consciousness through socialization processes. These shared understandings guide individuals’ behaviors within marriages, reinforcing societal norms surrounding relationships.
Similarly, universities provide another example of how social information influences our actions. When students enter university campuses, they enter a space governed by specific norms and practices. These include attending classes, studying for exams, and engaging with peers and professors. By adhering to these expectations, students contribute to the realization of the university as an institution of higher learning.
In conclusion, everyday interactions play a crucial role in making the real world. Through our actions and interactions, we bring abstract concepts into existence, turning them into tangible experiences shared by others. This process relies on the use of social information and knowledge about social norms, institutions, practices, and meanings. The commonality of this information facilitates coordination and understanding among individuals, shaping their actions and interactions in the world. Understanding how we make the real world through everyday interactions allows us to appreciate the power of collective action in shaping society.
