The development of our idea of the self and society
How and where we are born often determines the development of our idea of the self and society. The relationship between the two will differ from person to person. As such, do you see institutions (Church, state government, schools, etc.) holding sway over people? or is there some truth to Weber in that the individual being is able to resist the institution alone outside of society? What are your reasons?
Lastly, imagine yourself outside your body, what perspective do you have on institutions? Is your identity influenced by the relationship (or lack thereof) you have with these institutions? Do you think it is possible to be free of it?
Sample Solution
The relationship between an individual’s idea of self and society is largely determined by where and how they are born. While some may be heavily influenced by the institutions (church, state government, schools, etc.) that exist in their environment, others may find themselves resistant to conforming completely to institutional standards. This resistance can often be attributed to Weber's belief that individuals possess an intrinsic ability to resist the influence of institutions outside of society on their own volition.
From my perspective as an individual looking in from outside my body, I think it is possible for someone to maintain a certain level of autonomy while engaging with institutions. For example, rather than blindly accepting what is proposed by the institution itself, one might take initiative and push back against certain policies or decisions that do not align with their personal beliefs or values. This could manifest itself through vocalizing dissent during open forums or organizing protests in order to bring attention to important issues brought about by these institutions. Additionally, there are opportunities for a person to create alternative systems within communities that reject traditional hierarchical models and instead focus on collaboration among members— something which has been seen throughout history during times when oppressive regimes sought control over the populace at large. In this way, one can still have agency even if operating within larger structures put forth by established authorities.
In terms of identity being influenced by institutional relationships (or lack thereof) this too varies depending on how heavily an individual resonates with any particular institution or set of beliefs associated with it. For instance if someone were raised in a household where religion was highly esteemed then they would likely carry religious principles into adulthood; however such adherence would depend upon whether they found value in those teachings personally and chose subsequent action based off those feelings alone— regardless of any external pressures or influences from said institution(s).
Overall I believe it is possible for one to be free from institutional influence without disavowing all connections thereto entirely; rather I feel like there should be space allotted for critical evaluation so that meaningful engagement can occur between parties involved regardless of any preexisting power dynamics that may already exist beforehand as a result of birthplace or upbringing.