12: Chapter The Presentation of Self By Erving Goffman
General Statement- Goffman has articulated in a brilliant manner that social life can be illuminated and better understood by employing a dramaturgical metaphor or "life as theater" perspective.
Key Points:
1. Most behavior takes place in environments in which actors seek to perform in ways that demonstrate positive aspects of their behavior. 2. Most interaction develops a working consensus among actors that includes definitions of the selves involved and the line of conduct they are to follow. 3. The concept of the "real self" is an elusive one and is limited what to we can observe from the conduct and expressions of others. 4. We can seek to define the self in terms of the performances we witness and are a part of, which can be intentional or unintentional, or contrived or "sincere". 5. The examination of embarrassing incidents can reveal much about the nature of interaction as a dramaturgical enterprise. 6. Problematic or failed performances provoke reflection and provide insights about the nature of routine "successful" interactions.
Dramaturgical- social life as if actors are in a play Front Stage=Formal Interaction Backstage=Friends, Family Offstage=By Yourself