"The self is a product of socio-symbolic interaction, however it is not merely a passive reflection of the generalized other". Critically examine this statement with reference to Mead.

Hence self is very powerful. It is negotiating with environment to give a definite form, pattern and structure to society. But, although society can't wish away selfs; selfs cannot develop without human society.

Thus there is a harmonic and reciprocal relationship between self and society.

MEAD argues that human self is a reflexive, dynamic and social self. It is a subject and object of its own actions. every self is targetting goals and achieving those goals using appropriate means.

Human self is a reflexive self because it is conscious about itself, conscious about other selfs, action situation in which it is posted, expectation of counteractors, goals, targets, means available etc. This conscious human self is guided by mind to use gestures and symbols to interact with other selfs.

Thus self is a product of socio symbolic interaction. But when acting on things self is not merely reflecting generalized others rather it gets socialised first. This socialisation is carried out when child is growing. He

observes the self and behaviour of some specialized others (those who are important to his life eg: mother to child) and play role of those specialised others infront of the generalised others.

Thus human self is a socialised self leading to interaction, communication and advancement of knowledge. subsequently it gives rise to institutions and groups and society develops. Thus society and self share a dynamic and reciprocal relationship.

However Durkheim, contradicting mead, says that selfs are commiting themselves to conscience collective and social solidarity. Hence it is not independent.

GABRIEL TARDE advocates that human self imitate others to get recognition and appreciation. This viewpoint is also supported by R.K MERTON through his reference group theory.