ABSTRACT
Three aspects of the self are commonly examined in communication research: identity in conversation analysis, interpersonal and organizational studies, subjectivity in film criticism, and agency in rhetoric. This chapter explores identity, subjectivity, and agency in a series of interactions about disease without attempting to "resolve the conflicts within or between the theories discussed". It highlights how each of the theories informs the author's analysis of the conversations and discusses additional questions that arise as a result. Among possible identities a participant might portray, Goffman noted several: respectful of self, considerate of others, tactful, composed, polite, and witty. Dancelike aspects of identity construction are found when participants cooperate (intentionally or not) in ceremonial rituals that are embedded in everyday conversation. Contestlike aspects of identity construction are found when participants cooperate in ceremonial game rituals during everyday conversation. The chapter argues that communication scholarship would benefit from a more well-rounded conception of the self.
