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And to the degree that the individual maintains a show…

“And to the degree that the individual maintains a show before others that he himself does not believe, he can come to experience a special kind of alienation from self and a special kind of wariness of others.” quote by Erving Goffman
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“And to the degree that the individual maintains a show before others that he himself does not believe, he can come to experience a special kind of alienation from self and a special kind of wariness of others.”

Erving Goffman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People who fake confidence for others feel detached from themselves and become distrustful of others.

In simple terms: Pretending leads to alienation and wariness.

Key Takeaway

Be authentic to avoid self‑alienation.

Themes

authenticity self‑image social interaction

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • public speaking
  • job interviews
  • dating
  • team meetings

Key Concepts

impression management self‑discrepancy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does pretending affect your relationships?
  • What can you do to align your public and private selves?
A Different Perspective

May cause isolation and stress if overused.

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