Erving Goffman (1922-1982) was a prominent Canadian sociologist and influential figure in the field of symbolic interactionism. He is best known for his groundbreaking work in the study of social interaction, emphasizing the ways in which individuals construct and present their identities in various social contexts. Goffman's work has had a profound influence on fields such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, and communication studies.
Goffman's major contribution lies in his concept of "presentation of self," wherein individuals strategically manage their behaviors, appearances, and verbal expressions to create specific impressions in the minds of others. He argued that individuals are constantly engaged in impression management, working to maintain face and to project a particular image depending on the circumstances. This concept has helped to shape our understanding of how individuals navigate social life, particularly in institutional settings.
Goffman's work also explored the notion of "social stigma," examining how individuals who deviate from societal norms are often stigmatized and face social exclusion. He coined the term "stigma" to refer to various identity characteristics or attributes that are seen as undesirable or discrediting in a given society.
Goffman's work is recognized for its innovative and precise observations of everyday social interactions. He employed theater as a metaphor to explain the dramaturgical nature of social life, wherein individuals perform different social roles and engage in impression management to maintain social order and make sense of their world.
Erving Goffman's contributions have positioned him as a highly influential figure in shaping our understanding of social interaction, self-presentation, and the construction of social identity. His work continues to be widely studied and cited in the field of sociology and beyond.
