SYMBOLIC INTERACTIONISM: A BRIEF
EXPLANATION OF THE PARADIGM

Herbert Blumer first coined the phrase "Symbolic Interactionism" to define the theoretical perspective that has grown to be one of the most significant sociological perspectives. Symbolic Interactionists focus on the subjective experience of an individual as the basis for understanding and studying society. When interacting socially, we constantly adjust our behavior to the actions of others. We represent various actions and actors symbolically, creating meaning, which allows us to interpret these actions and adjust our own behavior accordingly. Underlying this micro approach is the belief that we, as individuals, do not simply drift through life as passive objects of socialization. Instead, we actively engage in constructing our social world, thus creating our own social reality. This website will allow those who are curious about social behavior to learn the important terms and concepts within this sociological paradigm, the history of this theoretical perspective, how it grew to prominence within sociology in the midst of problems and criticism, and where it is headed in the future in terms of issues symbolic interactionists are currently addressing.