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Lesson plan of Subjectivity in Contemporary Society

Philosophy

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Subjectivity in Contemporary Society

Lesson Plan | Lesson Plan Tradisional | Subjectivity in Contemporary Society

KeywordsSubjectivity, Contemporary Society, Philosophy, Culture, Media, Social Media, Self-image, Self-esteem, Michel Foucault, Jean-Paul Sartre, Human Behaviour, Self-awareness
ResourcesWhiteboard and markers, Projector or screen for displaying slides, Presentation slides, Printed copies of selected philosophical texts (Foucault and Sartre), Notebooks and pens for students' notes, Examples of social media posts (images or screenshots), Short video on the impact of social media on self-image (optional)

Objectives

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The aim of this stage is to lay a solid foundation by outlining the key concepts that will be explored during the lesson. This sets students up to appreciate the relevance of the topic, relating it to philosophy and human behaviour in South Africa today.

Objectives Utama:

1. To grasp the concept of subjectivity in today's society.

2. To recognise how social factors shape individual subjectivity.

3. To connect philosophical theories to modern human behaviour.

Introduction

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

๐Ÿ“— Purpose: The goal of this stage is to provide students with a clear overview of the main ideas we will cover, helping them to see the significance of the topic and its connection to philosophy and human behaviour.

Did you know?

๐Ÿ” Did You Know: Overuse of social media can adversely affect the self-image and self-esteem of the youth? This happens because individuals often juxtapose their real lives with the polished and curated versions of others' lives presented online. This serves as a clear instance of how external influences can shape personal subjectivity.

Contextualization

๐Ÿ“š Context: Kick off the class by discussing that subjectivity is how each person perceives, interprets, and makes sense of the world. In today's context, subjectivity is influenced by a myriad of factors, including culture, media, digital technologies, personal relationships, and lived experiences. It's crucial to highlight that subjectivity isn't static; it's continually evolving based on various influences. For instance, social media significantly impacts how individuals perceive themselves and others.

Concepts

Duration: 40 - 50 minutes

๐Ÿ“— Purpose: This part aims to enhance students' understanding of subjectivity in contemporary society, examining how various external and internal influences shape individual perceptions. This encourages critical reflection on how their own subjectivities are influenced.

Relevant Topics

1. ๐Ÿ” Concept of Subjectivity: Explain that subjectivity is the individualistic approach to perceiving, interpreting, and understanding one's surroundings. Emphasise the role of personal experiences, beliefs, values, and emotions in forming one's subjectivity.

2. ๐ŸŒ Influence of Culture and Media: Elaborate on how culture and media shape one's subjectivity. Discuss how cultural norms, traditions, and media narratives influence individual perceptions.

3. ๐Ÿ“ฒ Impact of Social Media: Discuss the effects of social media on subjectivity, focusing on self-image, self-esteem, and perceptions of relationships. Use relatable examples to illustrate how constant exposure to idealised content can skew self-perception.

4. ๐Ÿ“– Related Philosophical Theories: Introduce relevant philosophical concepts regarding subjectivity, such as Michel Foucault's notions of power and subjectivity and Jean-Paul Sartre's thoughts on existence and essence. Discuss how these theories can provide insights into understanding subjectivity in the modern world.

5. ๐Ÿง  Subjectivity and Human Behaviour: Explore the interplay between subjectivity and human behaviour, stressing how individual perceptions inform daily choices and actions. Discuss the significance of self-awareness and critical thought concerning one's own perceptions and behaviours.

To Reinforce Learning

1. How do culture and media contribute to the formation of individual subjectivity? Can you share tangible examples?

2. In what ways might social media impacts the self-image and self-esteem of young people? Please provide real-life examples.

3. How does Michel Foucault's theory regarding power and subjectivity relate to individuals' self-perceptions in today's society?

Feedback

Duration: 20 - 25 minutes

๐Ÿ“— Purpose: This stage aims to consolidate what students have learnt during the lesson, encouraging thoughtful reflection on the topics discussed. By engaging students in discussions and reflective queries, we're fostering an environment where philosophical ideas can be applied to their daily lives, thus deepening their understanding and retention.

Diskusi Concepts

1. How do culture and media influence the formation of individual subjectivity? Can you give real-life examples? 2. Explain that culture offers a mix of norms and values that inform people's behaviours and perceptions. Media, through films, television, ads, and social platforms, spreads these cultural messages, shaping how people view themselves and others. An example could be how beauty standards are portrayed in the media, leading individuals to internalise specific ideals and influence their self-images accordingly. 3. In what ways can social media impact the self-image and self-esteem of young people? Discuss with examples. 4. Clarify that social media fosters an environment where individuals often share idealised images of their lives. This can lead young people to compare their everyday experiences with these curated versions, resulting in skewed perceptions of self-worth. Examples could include the use of filters that set unrealistic beauty expectations or the desire for validation through likes and comments. 5. Connect Michel Foucault's theory on power and subjectivity to how people perceive themselves today. 6. Discuss that we see Foucault's assertion that power permeates social interactions, shaping individualsโ€™ subjectivity. Institutions, be it schools, clinics, or media channels, exert power by defining norms and standards of behaviour, influencing self-perceptions. For example, media often highlights behaviours as desirable, compelling people to conform to these standards in terms of how they see themselves.

Engaging Students

1. Can you think of other instances where culture and media shape how we see ourselves? 2. How do you think social media affects your own attitudes and self-image? 3. What influence do you think institutions like school have on your individual perspective? 4. In what ways do you think Foucaultโ€™s ideas about power reflect in your daily interactions? 5. How can you use the concepts discussed today to enhance your self-awareness and decision-making processes?

Conclusion

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The objective of this closing stage is to summarise and reinforce the key takeaways from the lesson, solidifying students' comprehension of the topic. Moreover, it aims to pinpoint the links between philosophical theory and everyday situations, underscoring the importance of the subject in their personal and academic journeys.

Summary

['Understanding subjectivity as a unique method of perceiving and interpreting the world.', 'Recognising cultural and media influence on the construction of subjectivity.', 'Acknowledging the effects of social media on the self-image and self-esteem of youth.', 'Linking philosophical notions from Michel Foucault and Jean-Paul Sartre to the concept of subjectivity.', 'Establishing the connection between subjectivity and human behaviour along with the need for self-awareness.']

Connection

The lesson connected theoretical insights with practical realities by examining how cultural, media, and technological elements shape individual subjectivity. Real-world examples, like the influence of social media on young people's self-perception, helped ground the philosophical theories of Foucault and Sartre, providing a more applicable understanding of the concepts covered.

Theme Relevance

The theme of subjectivity is essential in students' lives as it helps them recognise how their views and actions are shaped by outside influences. Understanding such dynamics fosters greater self-awareness and encourages critical thinking about their own experiences and choices. Interesting tidbits, such as social media's impact on self-esteem, underscore the practical implications of the topic.

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