Theatricality of Identity: Goffman's Insights

Are we all just actors on the stage of life? Erving Goffman's work challenges the authenticity of our social selves, revealing how we manage impressions and navigate identity in various contexts. This curation explores the dynamics of self-presentation, especially in the age of remote work and social media.

1. Read
   The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life · Wikipedia

   Explores human social interaction through the lens of theatrical performance, emphasizing the significance of impression management. Goffman's dramaturgical analysis introduces key concepts that have shaped sociological thought since its publication in 1956.

2. Read
   

   Remote Workers' Face Time Tactics · MIT Sloan Management Review

   Examines how remote employees utilize virtual face time to compensate for their physical absence, highlighting the importance of visibility in professional settings. The authors note that remote workers often feel pressure to showcase their presence to maintain perceived productivity.

3. Watch
   

   How Social Media Shapes Identity | Ulrike Schultze | TEDxSMU · YouTube

   Investigates the impact of social media on personal identity, focusing on the ongoing process of identity work that individuals engage in online. Schultze argues that social media platforms facilitate both the construction and reconstruction of self-worth and significance.

4. Book
   

   The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life · Bookshop.org

   Analyzes the complexities of human behavior in social situations, using the metaphor of theatrical performance to illustrate how individuals present themselves to others. Goffman posits that our social interactions are akin to performances, where we navigate roles and expectations.

Each selected piece delves into the concept of self-presentation and identity management, building on Goffman's foundational ideas. Starting with his seminal work, the curation progresses through contemporary applications in remote work and social media, culminating in a deeper understanding of our social performances. Together, these pieces illustrate the ongoing relevance of Goffman's theories in today's interconnected world.

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