George Herbert Mead, a prominent sociologist and philosopher, proposed that the development of the self is intrinsically linked to societal interactions and experiences. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the individual self and the social environment. Mead''s statement, "Self and Society are twin-born," encapsulates the notion that the formation of self-consciousness and identity is intimately connected to social interaction and the broader societal context.

• The Social Nature of the Self:
  • Mead argued that the self is a social product and emerges through interactions with others. Individuals develop a sense of self through social communication, language, and role-taking.
  • Example: A child begins to develop a sense of self and identity by imitating the behaviors and actions of parents or caregivers, who act as significant others in shaping the child''s understanding of themselves.
• Role of Symbolic Interactionism:
  • Mead''s symbolic interactionist perspective highlights the role of symbols and language in the construction of meanings. Social interactions involve a continuous exchange of symbols, gestures, and words that contribute to the development of the self.
  • Example: When an individual receives positive feedback and praise for their achievements from peers or mentors, it shapes their self-esteem and self-concept positively.
• Socialization and Identity Formation:
  • Socialization is a crucial mechanism through which individuals internalize societal norms, values, and beliefs. It is a process where individuals learn to adapt to their social environment, shaping their identity and self-concept.
  • Example: Schools play a significant role in socialization, where students learn not only academic knowledge but also societal norms and behaviors through interaction with teachers and peers.
• Role-Taking and the "I" and "Me":
  • Mead introduced the concepts of the "I" and the "Me" to explain the dual nature of the self. The "I" represents the spontaneous, impulsive aspect of the self, while the "Me" reflects the internalized societal expectations and norms.
  • Example: A teenager might struggle with the conflict between their spontaneous desire to engage in rebellious activities ("I") and the societal expectations to conform and follow rules ("Me").
• The Looking-Glass Self:
  • Cooley''s looking-glass self, suggest that individuals perceive themselves based on how they believe others perceive them. People develop their self-concept by imagining how they appear to others and interpreting the reactions they receive.
  • Example: If an individual believes others view them as competent and capable, they are likely to develop a positive self-image and act accordingly.
• Feedback and Social Feedback Loops:
  • Continuous social feedback from others helps individuals refine their sense of self and adjust their behavior to align with societal expectations and norms.
  • Example: In the workplace, feedback from colleagues and supervisors provides insights into an individual''s performance and professional identity, influencing future actions and decisions.

George Herbert Mead''s assertion, "Self and Society are twin-born," encapsulates the inseparable connection between an individual''s self-development and their interactions with society. The self is not a solitary entity but emerges through social experiences, communication, and the internalization of societal norms and values. Understanding the interdependence of the self and society is essential for comprehending the complexities of human behavior and identity formation.