Applied Sociology – Symbolic Interactionism
Read the attached excerpt from Building blocks to an abundant life: Design the life you desire by Mirella Baker Bemmel and pay special attention to the sociological concepts that appear throughout the chapter. You may also want to click here to take a look inside the first few pages of the book (on the left hand side, above the image, click on "Look inside"). Take a symbolic interactionist approach to respond to the questions at the end of the chapter. You should incorporate 15 to 20 sociological terms throughout your paper and highlight each term (only highlight once if you use the term multiple times).
Symbolic interactionism suggests that humans rely heavily on symbols to interpret our society and form meaningful relationships with others. Symbols can take many forms; from nonverbal cues like body language or facial expressions to tangible objects like clothing or jewelry all the way up to complex abstractions like laws or customs. According to Bemmel, it is important for us to recognize what kind of symbol we have chosen in order to understand ourselves better and gain insight into our own behavior.
Bemmel believes that by understanding the power of symbolization we can craft a more fulfilling existence by choosing symbols that are meaningful for us personally rather than those imposed upon us externally by society at large. For example, if someone feels compelled to purchase designer clothing because it makes them feel more confident then this could be seen as an empowering symbol - however if they purchase said clothing because everyone else around them also does so then this could be considered an oppressive symbol as it has been imposed externally on them without any personal significance attached..
By consciously creating symbols that represent desirable states both internally (through self-reflection) and externally (through behaviors) we can bring about significant changes in our lives. This idea ties back into sociology principles such as social control theory which suggests behavior is influenced not only by external factors but also internal ones based on individual values or beliefs held strong enough over time will ultimately shape future actions taken accordingly... Additionally rituals associated certain triggers ie.: music playing particular songs heard frequently past when embarking new journey may help signify importance occasion cemented further memories formed along enabling maximize effect desired reaping rewards reward system built within subconscious mind finally worthy mention too!
In regards questions posed end chapter – yes believe possible design life desire largely due ability think critically analyzing situations objectively demonstrating flexibility handling change depending circumstance always ready adjust adapted needed strive success looking opportunities arise hidden gems overlooked noticed eyes open danger lurking seemingly harmless acted quickly & decisively whenever warranted crucial factor ensuring continue progress journey doing nothing stand still letting complacency set should avoided worst costs conceivable unable meet expectations requires dedication staying motivated pushing boundaries explore unknown inspired creativity ingenuity plan ahead short medium long term goals achievable reasonable timeline allowing ample margin error course unexpected events come bearing gifts need prepared accept them gracefully graciously course correction performed necessary part process worry free…