Was Goffman's work overly cynical about social life?
Some might interpret my emphasis on impression management as suggesting a cynical view, where genuine self is absent. However, my aim was not to judge but to understand the functional aspects of these performances. These 'presentations of self' are not necessarily deceptions but are essential for maintaining social cohesion and allowing individuals to navigate complex social situations. The management of self is a fundamental aspect of social life, enabling interaction and the construction of shared realities.
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