Why Study the Symbolic Construction of Community?

1
Why Studythe Symbolic Construction of Community?

• As a process, the Symbolic Construction of
  Community is a prime example of the usefulness of
  Fleras social constructionist approach to the
  study of race/ethnic relations
• That is, puts some meat on the theoretical
  bones that Fleras presents.
• Symbolic Construction of Community is fundamental
  to the process of othering, which is becoming
  central to the study of racial and ethnic
  relations.
• Othering and Symbolic Construction of Community
  might be useful concepts to work into your
  thinking and write-up of Assignments 1 and 2.

2
The Symbolic Construction of Community (R. Breton)

• Sociologists Questions
• Who defines the cultural community?
• e.g., elders? political elite? church
  leaders? a soc mvmt? govt?
• Under what conditions?
• e.g., perceived threat? relative
• deprivation? prosperity?
• constitutional reform?
• Who socially validates that definition?
• e.g., media? elders? Courts?
• academics? External audiences?

3
Components of the Symbolic Construction of
Community

• Principles of Inclusion Exclusion in Defining
  the Community i.e. BOUNDARY-SETTING
• e.g., pure laîne Québécois
  Bill C-31 Indians
• Authenticity Definition and Nature A
  First Nations Example - Forums for
  Challenging - The Discourse - Why an Issue?
• New Conceptions of the Past
• e.g., new myths
• Views Which Come to Prevail re the Groups
  Relationship with the Larger Society

4
Symbolic Constructionof Cultural Community
Concluding Observations

• Competition - is central to SCCC
• - winners losers challengers
  defenders
• Inherently Political - a negotiated order