Discussion Questions

  1. Ritzer says that globalization has a variety of positive and negative effects on the self. What are some of the positive effects of globalization on the self that you can identify? What are some of the negative?
  2. How would you describe the difference between the brain and the mind? What are some situations where the brain might be more important than the mind and vice versa?
  3. How do you think Goffman’s theory of impression management applies to online interactions? How is it easier or more difficult to manage your impression online?
  4. In the role of student, create a list of front-stage and backstage performances that might occur at school. Consider how you might act in the classroom versus how you might act in the school quad or other social meeting place on campus.
  5. Which of the agents of socialization discussed in this chapter do you believe had the most influence on your socialization? Why?