While reading Howard Becker’s article on smoking pot, I became aware of how much learning and behaviors are based on social interactions. Without other people and culture around, learning things would be impossible. We read textbooks written by other people to understand less practical knowledge and learn everyday knowledge simply by participating in society. In every type of culture and with every living being, knowledge of customs and necessities is transferred through communication with others.
Social Construction is a good example of how knowledge can be transferred through society. Social Construction is basically the concept that everyone in a society agrees to treat a certain aspect a certain way regardless of its inherent value. This kind of knowledge has to be taught, because there is no biological instinct to know how to treat it. Money is a good example of social construction. The pieces of paper that have no intrinsic value become useful, and worth something to people.
In terms of the article, pot smoking is almost entirely social (at least the first time smoking). More experienced smokers are there to help the first timer, by teaching them how to smoke better and by calming them down when experiencing frightening or unpleasant experiences. Without others, smoking for the first time can be terrifying and unsuccessful, and the smoker may not continue to smoke.
A personal experience I have with social learning is through jogging. While jogging or running is a natural human function, I needed help and advice to improve. In the beginning, I tried to learn how to jog by myself, but quickly became discouraged. I mentioned this to a friend of mine, who also jogs, and she began to teach me about pacing myself, hydration, diet, and varying locations. I became a better jogger through social interaction with my friend.
Culture is many things but it is definitely social. Without other subjects and participants to share experiences, give feedback, and teach us new things, it is unlikely that anyone would learn anything, and society as a whole would suffer immensely.
I couldn't agree more with you and your words.
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I really liked how you conclude the idea from the Howard Becker's article, and I totally agree with your opinion. Yes, we need other people in our lives. We need advice, help, and interaction with other people with what we are learning something. I think jogging is really a convincing example of social learning. Great post!
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