The concept of social reality, particularly in the context of a symbolic universe, refers to the idea that much of what we consider real and meaningful in society is constructed through shared symbols, meanings, and cultural interpretations.

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This perspective is often associated with symbolic interactionism, a sociological theory that focuses on how individuals interact through shared symbols and meanings. Social reality, in this sense, is not simply an objective, concrete existence but is rather shaped and maintained by the symbolic elements that people collectively invest with meaning.

Key aspects of the concept of social reality within a symbolic universe include:

Symbolic Interactionism:

Symbolic interactionism, developed by theorists like George Herbert Mead and later extended by Herbert Blumer, emphasizes the role of symbols in shaping social interactions and constructing meaning. According to this perspective, individuals engage in a continuous process of interpretation and negotiation of symbols within their social environment.

Symbols and Meanings:

Social reality is constructed through the use of symbols, which can include words, gestures, rituals, and other forms of communication. These symbols acquire meaning through shared interpretations within a community or society. For example, a flag may be a symbol that represents a nation, and its meaning is socially constructed and agreed upon.

Shared Understanding:

Social reality relies on a shared understanding of symbols and meanings among members of a group or society. This shared understanding facilitates communication and interaction. For instance, the concept of money is a symbolic representation of value, and its meaning is shared within a community, allowing for economic transactions.

Subjective and Objective Elements:

While social reality involves subjective interpretations and meanings, it is also intertwined with objective elements. The tangible objects, institutions, and structures in society are given meaning through the symbolic lens. For example, a courtroom may be a physical space, but its significance as a site of justice is socially constructed through symbols like the judge’s robe and the legal language used.

Reality as a Social Construction:

The concept of social reality challenges the notion of an independently existing, objective reality. Instead, it suggests that our understanding of reality is socially constructed through the ongoing process of symbolic interaction. This means that what is considered real or meaningful varies across different cultures, communities, and historical contexts.

Symbolic Universe:

The term “symbolic universe” refers to the entire set of symbols and meanings that constitute the social reality within a particular group or society. It encompasses the shared beliefs, values, norms, language, and other symbolic elements that give coherence and order to social life. The symbolic universe shapes individuals’ perceptions, actions, and social relationships.

Social Change and Symbols:

Changes in social reality often involve shifts in symbolic meanings. For example, the reinterpretation of symbols related to gender roles, marriage, or race can contribute to transformations in societal norms and values. Social movements, in particular, may challenge and redefine existing symbols to bring about change in social reality.

In summary, the concept of social reality within a symbolic universe highlights the role of symbols and shared meanings in shaping our understanding of the world. It underscores the idea that what is considered real and meaningful is not solely determined by objective facts but is socially constructed through ongoing symbolic interactions within a given society or community.