SO249: Becoming Yourself: The Construction of the Self in Contemporary Western Societies
Every day you are encouraged in Western societies to 鈥渆xpress yourself鈥�, 鈥渂e true to yourself鈥�, 鈥渟tand out from the crowd鈥�, 鈥渟ell yourself鈥�, 鈥渂e the best you can be鈥�. But who, actually, are you? Where does your identity and individuality come from? Do you fully choose and control it? Sociological research shows that many of the things we hold true about ourselves are, to some extent, illusions constructed by powerful social forces which we are not always aware of. Sociological research also demonstrates that several of the things you think are unique about yourself are actually elements of broader social patterns.
This module examines the construction of identity in western societies, analysing how our contemporary identities are shaped by a range of past and present phenomena, including social inequalities, scientific developments or political and economic changes (such as the emergence of neoliberalism or the development of advertising). Throughout the module, we will make links between social structures and personal experience – in other words, we will examine the very strong connections between the biggest social forces all around us, and the smallest, most intimate aspects of your identity, your feelings and your life.
Key Information
Optional module
15 CATS
Summative Assessment: 750 word reflective essay (25%) and 2250 word essay (75%)
Teaching: 1 x 1 hour lecture & 1 x 1 hour seminar per week
Module Convenor: Dr Maria do Mar Pereira