In one of this week’s background readings, Pampel explains that George Herbert M

In one of this week’s background readings, Pampel explains that George Herbert Mead’s theories “emphasize the connection between the individual and the community” and focus on “connecting society to our innermost thoughts” (169-170). These ideas are central to Mead’s microsociological approach, which examines how people create shared meanings and identities as they interact with one another. As presented in the Blumer primary reading, Mead’s approach inspired the theoretical perspective known as symbolic interactionism and influenced other American sociologists, including Howard Becker. In this discussion post, I’d like you to describe one way in which you see Becker working to understand the creation of meanings and identities in interaction, like Mead. Make sure to include at least one quote from the primary readings by Becker (either “Becoming a Marihuana User” or “Marihuana Use and Social Control”) to illustrate your ideas. Then, in a few sentences, discuss at least one strength and/or shortcoming (i.e. something you like or dislike) about the analysis of interaction that Becker develops in this reading.