What is your utopia?

Read the newspaper article on pg. 21. As you read the story, try to decide whether or not you could be a member of this group. Does your decision indicate something about you?

What is identity? Identity has a wide range of meanings. In a very broad sense, identity is who or what one is. Two types of identity frequently discussed in sociology are personal and collective identity. Personal identity is the idea you have of yourself as a unique individual. It is the collection of traits that you think of as distinguishing you from others. Collective identity is one that you share with other ppl as a member of a larger social group, such as a linguistic, faith, cultural, or ethnic group.

Beliefs & Values Beliefs and values are important aspects of identity. Although they are abstract ideas, they can have real effects on our lives. They influence our behaviour and choices, and guide us in our interactions with others and how we view the world.

What is an ideology?Introduction to Ideologies: Lesson 1 Williams Social (a ‘by-the-book’ introduction)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWckfC3j941 (3:25)Full video= 5:09 – you will want to watch this all as review.

Ideology & Identity Ideology can also influence a person’s identity. Ideology: a set of principles or ideas that explain our world and our place within it which ppl accept to be true. An individual might embrace a particular ideology because it mirrors certain beliefs and values about the world that the individual already has. Once ppl consciously embrace an ideology, it may cause them to re-examine and reinterpret their own lives according to the principles of that ideology. Pg. 27-28

For Homework Read the 3 “Ethical Statements for Exploration and Response” on pg. 29. Tell me what each statement means, and whether you agree or disagree and why. Answer questions 1, 2, & 4 on pg. 30 for “Explore the Issues.” Pg. 31 Figure 1-8

What Are We Learning Today?
1.3 Explore factors that may influence individual and collective beliefs and values.

“No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate…”

Family Influences Families often have a strong influence on their children’s identities. For most people, the earliest influence on their personal beliefs and values is their family. In his book Family, Socialisation, and Interaction Process (1955), Talcott Parsons argues: “it is because the human personality is not ‘born’ but must be ‘made’ through the socialization process that in the first instance families are necessary. They are factories which produce human personalities.”

Questions to Explore… Do you agree with Parson’s idea that families are “factories which produce human personalities”? Pg. 32 How can you explain how 2 individuals from the same family (Bart & Lisa) would have such different points of view? How much influence do you think your parents’ ideas have had on your own beliefs and values?

Gender The way ppl understand gender is affected by their experiences- personal, social, cultural- as well as their beliefs and values. The specific qualities or behaviors that make up a gender role vary from one society to another. Different societies may have different ideas for what is gender “appropriate.” This can include what career choices are acceptable for a man or woman or what kind of behaviour is expected from a mother or father when raising a child.

Quotes on Gender Roles The following quotes deal with gender roles assigned in western society. What quote, if any, seems to be most representative of your experience with gender? Man is the hunter; woman is his game… Man for the field and woman for the hearth: Man for the sword and for the needle she: Man with the head and woman with the heart: Man to command and woman to obey… - Alfred Tennyson

Gender Quotes Cont’d Woman is determined not by her hormones or by mysterious instincts, but by the manner in which her body and her relation to the world are modified through the action of others than herself. The abyss that separates the adolescent boy and girl has been deliberately widened between them since early childhood… - Simone de Beauvoir, French author & philosopher

Gender Quotes Cont’d Modern invention has banished the spinning wheel, and the same law of progress makes the woman of today a different woman from her grandmother. - Susan B. Anthony, women’s rights activist

Are religion and spirituality the same thing?

Religion & Spirituality Religion and spirituality can take on many forms. Each plays a role in shaping a person’s ideology. Religious or spiritual faith can give meaning to ppl’s lives and provide them with a moral system that informs their actions. Spirituality can be expressed both individually & collectively. For some, it’s a private thing that’s pursued through self-reflection, meditation, and prayer. For others, their spirituality provides them with a sense of community.

Religion & Ideology There is no question religion can influence particular ideologies. Christian Democracy, for example, incorporates many of the principles of Christianity into its political values. Islamism uses the tenets of Islam and Islamic law as the basis for a political system. However, many other ideologies are secular, but still support religious freedom. Other ideologies, such as forms of Communism, are opposed to the practice of religion altogether. Karl Marx famously called religion the “opiate of the masses,” claiming that the spiritual comfort of religion prevented oppressed peoples from seeking political change.

Environment Most scientists now agree that human activities are having a negative impact on the env’t. Concern for the environment is not new. Greenpeace was founded in 1971 in Vancouver. Increasing environmental awareness has had an enormous influence on the lives of many individuals. It has changed their daily habits, with practices such as reuse and recycling becoming more commonplace. It has influenced behaviour as consumers & how some ppl vote.

Green Politics Though most ppl realize the importance of our relationship with the environment there is little consensus among countries on how to best go about achieving this. Environmentalism has also spawned the political ideology known as “Green politics”. There are numerous Green parties across the world, including Canada. Generally, “Green politics” approach many political issues from an environmental perspective and stress environmentalism, ecology, and sustainable economics.

http://www.greenparty.ca/

Relationship to Land The relationship you have to the land you inhabit is another factor that influences your beliefs & values. For example, if your livelihood is connected to land or natural resources, this might exert a strong influence on your identity. Do you think a farmer would have the same kind of relationship with the land as a city journalist would? Events such as the Calgary Stampede, or smaller-town fairs and rodeos, celebrate our economic and cultural connection to our land. Quote pg. 40-41

For Homework Complete the “Beliefs and Values Inventory” on pg. 30. (Don’t do the small group part). Answer question 5 on pg. 30 for “Explore the Issues.” (Don’t do the small group part for 5).

Language Language is one way in which ppl communicate beliefs and values, worldview, cultural and societal understandings, and sense of self. People often don’t realize the impact language has on their identity until you are in a place where your language is in the minority. Suddenly, it can become a lot more important if its not shared with everyone.

Francophones & Language Francophones in Canada have fought to have their official language rights under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms respected. Many argue the French language is an integral part of Canada’s national identity and that we need to do all we can to overcome the forces of linguistic assimilation. In 2008, Francophones in Alberta numbered 65,990, or 2.2% of the population. The struggle to maintain their language remains an important part of the values and beliefs of many Franco-Albertans. (Figure 1-13)

Media First cartoon pg. 44 Canadian theorist Marshall McLuhan claimed that the “medium is the message.” What do you think he meant by that? That the form of the communication was more important than the actual content! Some critics of McLuhan disagree with his dismissal of the role of content in media’s influence on its audience.

How much influence do you think the media have on people’s opinions? Do you think people are fully conscious of the impact of media? Can you think of specific examples of the media’s influence on the beliefs and values of you and your peers?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmtd9o6ZWZM

Media Hegemony Like McLuhan, many media theorists focus on the potential of media for the establishment of hegemony: the political control exerted by one group over others. Many claim that the content of mainstream media sources reflects the commercial and political interests of the corporations that own them. First quote pg. 45

For Homework Read the italics on pg. 48. Answer the first 2 out of the 3 bullets under “Pause and Reflect.” (A page double spaced.) Bottom pg. 48

1.5 Examine the characteristics of ideology.

Characteristics of Ideology All ideologies contain a set of beliefs and values about similar things. They are all concerned with essential questions of life, such as: What are humans like, and why do they act as they do? How should society be organized? How has the world worked in the past? How should it work in the future? The answers an ideology provides to these questions form the characteristics of that ideology.

Nature of Human Beings Beliefs about human nature – about whether ppl are essentially good or bad, for example – are fundamental to any ideology. Pg. 49 How might such a view of human nature influence your choice of ideology?

Structure of Society Social structures: bind us together as a society help the society to function in an orderly fashion. reflectsthe beliefs and values of that society. There are also informal social structures (i.e. norms): unwritten rules about acceptable social behavior and actions. Pg. 49-50

List of Minimum Wages in Canada http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_minimum_wages_in_Canada

Interpretations of History The events of the past tend to influence the beliefs and values that we hold, in turn affecting our identities and the way we interpret the world. Ex: an individual whose life has been difficult may have a pessimistic view of life and consider that life is a struggle against the odds. Other individuals may grow up believing that it is their duty in life to help people who are disadvantaged because they themselves have been privileged. Pg. 50

Visions of the Future Every ideology has some sort of vision of what the world should look like in the future (a certain utopia). Our personal vision of what we think the world should be will likely cause us to embrace an ideology that shares that same futuristic viewpoint. Pg. 50

1.6 Explore themes of ideologies.

The Themes of Ideology Typical themes of concern to ideologies include nation, class, race, environment and relationship to the land, gender, and religion, among others. Most ideologies talk about, or are concerned with, these themes. In some cases, it may seem as though one or two themes predominate in an ideology. For example, Marxists (communists) concentrate heavily on the theme of class, and capitalists emphasize the theme of freedom. Table pg. 51

Milton Friedman: pgs 54-55. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_oZpP1cjKg (What’s More Greedy? Capitalism, or Government? 2:24 – Bryan Binkholder) For Homework Read the speech by Tommy Douglas on pg. 52-53. Compose a retrieval chart: identify and explain as many characteristics and themes of ideology as you can find in his message. Interpretation of history, structure of society, human nature, vision of future (min. 1 each)

Progressivism umbrella term for various ideologies that advocate moderate political and social reform (change) through gov’t action. Support social justice and rights of workers. Ex: using anti-trust laws to prevent corporations from establishing monopolies in the marketplace (Microsoft).

1.4 Examine historic and contemporary expressions of individualism and collectivism.

When we examine ideologies, we can see that each of them is based on either individualism or collectivism, or a mixture of the two.WilliamsSocial Lesson 2: Individualism vs Collectivism (6:18)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGmhQnpUlgQ

Individualism Individualist ideologies tend to advocate (promote) individual rights, and freedom from gov’t and from collective controls and restrictions. They promote principles such as: - autonomy: a state of individual freedom from outside authority - self-interest: one’s personal interest or advantage - personal achievement - self-reliance: the quality of being solely responsible for one’s own well-being

Collectivism working cooperatively to solve problems and manage economic and social issues. collective enterprises, unions, and teamwork can accomplish more than individuals and competition can. stress social harmony and cohesion over competitiveness. emphasize the common good: (the good of a community; something that benefits the public health, safety, and/or well-being of society as a whole) over individual goals or gain.

Individualism, Collectivism, & the Role of Gov’t Collectivist ideologies see a positive role for gov’t assistance and control in regard to the economy and social issues. Individualist ideologies usually see the gov’t as interfering and counterproductive.

Collectivism… to government.

Individualism… to government.

Varying Individualistic Ideologies There are many different individualistic ideologies that are based on varying degrees of individualism: they do not necessarily all agree on the best means of organizing society. most individualistic ideologies have a similar understanding of the individual’s place in society stress the importance of ideas such as personal autonomy and self-reliance.

Varying Collectivist Ideologies collectivism is not a single ideology: many different ideologies are based on collectivist ideas, and these various ideologies may differ in their methods and ultimate goals. All stress human interdependence and the importance of a collective, regardless of size, rather than the importance of the individual. They all emphasize group goals and the common good.

Scoring Beliefs & Values Inventory For statements 2, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 16, 17, 18, and 19 give yourself a “5” if you answered often, a “3” if you answered sometimes, and a “1” if you answered rarely. These statements are more associated with individualism. For statements 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 11, 13, 15, and 20 give yourself a “1” if you answered often, a “3” if you answered sometimes, and a “5” if you answered rarely. These statements are more associated with collectivism. If you scored 60 – 100 you associate yourself more with the concept of individualism. If you scored 20 – 60 you align more with the concept of collectivism.

For Homework Analyze the bumper stickers on pg. 62. For all 8, tell me whether they are conveying an individualist message, a collectivist one, or both. How can you tell?

Individualism in Ancient Greece The concept of self-interest was discussed in the 4th century BCE (400 BCE to 301 BCE) by the Greek philosopher Aristotle. In his book Politics he wrote: “That which is common to the greatest number has the least care bestowed upon it. Every one thinks chiefly on his own, hardly at all of the common interest; and only when he is himself concerned as an individual.” What do you think he meant by this?

Anthropological studies tell us that most, if not all, the earliest human societies were collectivist. Why might that be?

Collectivism in the New Testament Collectivism was also practiced 2000 years ago by early Christians, as mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible. Acts 2:44-45 states, “And all those who had believed were together, and they began selling their property and possessions, and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.” Compare the last part of this sentence with the collectivist maxim (rule) popularized by Karl Marx: “From each according to his abilities, to each according to his needs.” Are the two similar?

Aboriginal Understandings of Collectivism Indigenous peoples such as the Aboriginal peoples in Canada describe their traditional cultures as having a strong sense of the collective. In matters such as land-holding, decision making, and educating and raising children, many Aboriginal cultures emphasize thinking and acting collectively to achieve what is best for the common good. Many of these collectivist traditions are still practiced in some Aboriginal communities. Interview excerpt pg. 66-67 (Re-)read “Relationships to Land” pgs. 39-40 in your text. Then read “American Indian Collectivism” (handout). Answer the attached questions – for discussion.

The Medieval Period (circa 476 to the Renaissance) PaxRomana, the “Peace of Rome,” had provided structure and security throughout the Roman Empire. With the collapse of the Empire in the year 476, Europe was thrown into chaos. Over time, order was restored in small areas under the guidance of local warlords. Small areas of structure grew into larger ones as warlords joined together an aristocracy (nobility) was established.

A Worthless Life Common people were provided structure and physical security in exchange for loyalty and service to their lords. But the individual had very little worth. They were worth little more than a cow!

The Catholic Church’s Influence By 800, most of Europe had converted to Christianity under the Roman Catholic Church. The Church held immense power at this time because it was seen as the gatekeeper of heaven. It taught people to focus less on the material world and more on the afterlife. If life on earth was miserable, this was ok because life after death promised to be glorious. Therefore developments in art, science, commerce, and progress in general were not emphasized (individual life on earth barely mattered).

Social Classes in Medieval Europe most people in Europe fit into distinct social classes: peasants, traders, craftsmen, clergy (priests, monks, and other people who performed duties in the Roman Catholic Church) and nobles. What mattered was how you fit into your group, not your individual identity. Therefore, Medieval Europe is a great example of collectivism in history. Middle of pg. 68 Hierarchy Visual

Divine Right of Kings This was justified by saints Augustine of Hippo (354-430) and Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) who argued that authority was derived from God and that a king held power through the will of God. individualism rarely mattered in political matters.

The Renaissance (circa 1450-1600) comes from the French; means “rebirth.” a very different time than the medieval period characterized by: renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman culture. European scholars revived classical ideas about the central importance of life in this world, man’s central role in the world, appreciation of the worth of the individual.

Reviving Ancient Greek Ideas A lot of the Renaissance involved reviving some of the ideas of Ancient Greece. Ancient Greek culture had been very humanistic and individualistic. Greek mythology: gods on Mount Olympus were anthropomorphic (behaved like humans and sometimes interacted with them). In these myths, humans occasionally challenged the gods, and were sometimes seen to be on equal terms with them.

Ancient Greece & Human Potential This ‘human potential’ led the ancient Greeks and later the people of the Renaissance to focus on: capabilities, strength, beauty, and reason of individual humans. Humans could be like gods: they could remake their worlds and be the authors of their own fates.

A Change in Thinking ancient Greek ideas took hold in the city-states of Italy changed the thinking and focus of influential people in Europe. Painters began to study nature and the world around them. use of perspective, creating more 3-dimensional depictions of the real world and of humans, started. Other works of art portrayed real individuals instead of stylized and archetypical (model) religious subjects. Works also showed the growing importance of books, education, study of nature, etc.

Sculptures such Michelangelo’s Pieta, which depicts Mary cradling Jesus after his crucifixion, celebrated the individual human form.

The Protestant Reformation (circa 1500-1650) The Protestant Reformation partially a product of the growing influence of the Renaissance focused on the individual contributed to the growth of individualism by challenging the authority of the dominant Roman Catholic Church. The Catholic Church interpreted religion for people through Church tradition and the Bible many Protestant Churches claimed to rely on the Bible alone.

The Printing Press (Johannes Gutenberg c.1439) the Bible could be translated into many languages and be made available to a large number of people. Now, people who could read could explore, consider, and interpret their faith on a more personal level.

Emergence of Individualism in European Society The emergence of individualism in European societies took several centuries. while individualism eventually came to predominate in many societies, it has never replaced collectivism entirely. The two tendencies have existed side by side in a sometimes uneasy relationship that has shaped societies in the past and continues to shape societies today.

1.9 Analyze the dynamic between individualism and common good in contemporary societies.

Contemporary Individualism & Collectivism Pg. 87 In what ways do you think Jeff Skoll is an example of individualism? In what ways do his actions demonstrate collectivism?

Can Individualism & Collectivism Co-exist? In speaking about ideologies and the ideas of individualism and collectivism, people sometimes try to suggest that the 2 viewpoints are incompatible. They argue that the respective values of these 2 viewpoints are so different that you must choose between them. While it is true that the values of individualism and collectivism are sometimes at odds, there are aspects of the 2 sets of ideas that can complement each other. They can sometimes work together for the common good of society.

American Individualism Americans are well-known for their emphasis on individualism. Some think American individualism consists of an attitude of tough-mindedness toward the claims of others for assistance (not an absolute refusal to help but rather that individuals should first do everything possible before asking others for assistance). Quote pg. 88

Are Canadians So Different? 2004 study by the Pew Research Center: Canadians and Americans have more than a few values in common. 65% of Americans & 63% of Canadians think people determine their own success in life. Most Western Europeans, believe people have “little control over their own destinies.” 77% of Canadians and 73% of Americans think gov’t should provide a social safety net (social services, i.e. employment insurance and health care) 91% of Western Europeans believe this

Can We Be Collectivist & Individualist? What is interesting: although North American’s first viewpoint is that people are in charge of their own success, (individualist), their other viewpoint that gov’ts should provide help to those who need it is collectivist. This suggests that many people, (in many cases, the majority) embrace BOTH individualist and collectivist ideals.

Does money buy you happiness?

Does the Old Adage “Money Can’t Buy You Happiness” Ring True? Another study that examined levels of consumer spending & happiness found: rich countries, where individualism was more prevalent and consumption was higher, had higher overall levels of subjective well-being (a person’s perception of their own happiness). However, when ppl at different income levels within the same country were compared, it was found that: beyond the level at which a person’s basic needs can be met, there was little correlation between subjective well-being and income.

What conclusions can you draw from these studies?First quote pg. 89

It’s Not the Money, But the Freedom! In other words, it does not follow that the more money you have the happier you will be. More important is the freedom to pursue your own personal fulfillment. This freedom is what makes you happier.

Individualism & Social Capital Other researchers have claimed that increased individualism in a society leads to an increased sense of commitment to the collective. In a study that examined levels of social capital (the strength of social relationships between individuals) and individualism, the authors argued… Second quote pg. 89

Are Individualists Anti-Human? These studies seem to indicate that individualism and collectivism are not diametrically opposed concepts and can co-exist. Perhaps it’s the freedom to “do what you want” that individualists most identify with and not the selfishness and “me first” part that we often associate them with?

What is your utopia?