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Social Identities Are Socially Constructed Essay Example

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Social Identities Are Socially Constructed Essay Example
Social Identities are Socially Constructed
Over the long history of our species, human beings have developed complex forms of identity, which makes it possible to interact and live together, says British Philosopher Kwame A. Appiah. Globalization has also seen new forms of differences amongst human beings generated all the time. Much before the 1960's there were many identities that did not exist that we see in society today, such as Scientologists, punks, hip hop and so forth. These different identities are important forms of cultural differences that have evolved in society during time. These identities also shape the lives of many people around the world. As human beings we develop different forms of social identities that makes it possible to live together. We further construct our identities to suit our ever-­‐changing environments. Our social identifies change all the time, but they are not replaced with nothing, they are replaced with changed identities. For the purpose of my essay I would like to introduce to you how 'social identities' are socially constructed and the process through which it occurs. For a better understanding on this topic, I will further explain concepts that are relevant to the construction of identities, and will introduce some key people who are academically valid social science figures in this subject field.
By understanding that Social identity is constructed through socialization, I will hereby explain what this means. Socialization is a process by which adults or children learn certain types of behavior, roles and values. These behaviors are learnt from parents, friends, school and the environments humans engage in, to become functional members of society. These various groups, institutions and individuals can be referred to as the 'agents of socialization’. This learning process starts from childhood and continues to adulthood, and the process is ongoing. The socialization model, which includes altercasting, shaping and

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