Melinda Blau on October 2, 2009
Many social scientist today look at “the self” as broader concept, an identity shaped not only by our individual experiences but also by our relationships, mostly our consequential strangers. Each of us, of course, has a “personal” self that strives to be unique. But we are also “extended” selves, who seek connection and strive to be part of something bigger--beyond our selves, beyond our loved ones.
Many social scientist today look at “the self” as broader concept, an identity shaped not only by our individual experiences but also by our relationships, mostly our consequential strangers. Each of us, of course, has a “personal” self that strives to be unique. But we are also “extended” selves, who seek connection and strive to be part of something bigger--beyond our selves, beyond our loved ones.