A classic that remains relevant
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Although this is a slim book it is more rich in detail and insight thanmany texts twice its size. Goffman is both a genius and a brilliantwriter. His theory is clearly elucidated throughout the text by real lifeanecdotes. The book opens with a letter to a "lonelyhearts" column from agirl "born without a nose" which concludes "Ought I commit suicide?" Thissets the tone for a book that pulls no punches and comprehensively addresses the alienation of those different from what is perceived to be"normal". I hope that this text is being promoted at secondary schoollevel, and it is certainly essential reading for anyone whose workinvolves dealing with people.
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excellent for sociology students.
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this book is excellent for those interested in sociology or psycology. Good for gaining an understanding as to how those with disabilities or a 'difference' from others and how their and their families behaviour may be affected.
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The 20th Century's most gifted and engaging Social scientist
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For those not familiar with Goffman's work he is the acceptable face of Sociology. He avoids the bogus science which has given the whole enterprise a bad name but captures the essence of what makes the study of social interraction so fascinating. The Stigmas covered include disabilities, social deviance or sexual orientation. Stigma proposes a basic principle: That the stigmatised individual has a simple choice regarding the attributes that he or she has that makes them different. They can either control the information by not letting so called 'normals' i.e. everyone else, know what their secret is if its not obviously visible; or they can let it be known and manage the resulting tension. They can 'pass' i.e. pretend to be normal while harbouring the knowledge that their stigma makes them distinct and different. It is Goffman's extraordinary insight and accurate description that makes his brand of Sociology so engaging. You will read this and say 'Aha' when you recognise that things you thought only you had observed in the minutely detailed interplay of human relations have been bagged, tagged and described in the most accurate and well documented manner. Nobody should go through life without at least once dipping in to the sharply observed world of this great 20th century observer.
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a discreditable person writes...
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Although written at a time when we thought different, and certainly spoke in different terms about people with sensory and physical disabilities, this is essential stuff for anyone interested in the interface between "normals" and excluded groups in society. Goffman's easy to read yet informative style is backed-up by plenty of anecdotal evidence.
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