The Evolution Of Knowledge And Perception Among The Andes Survivors

907 Words4 Pages

In 1972, a tragic plane crash in the Andes mountains left a group of rugby players and their relatives stranded for 72 days, facing unimaginable challenges for survival. This event, known as the Andes plane crash or the F-227 incident, is a compelling case study that sheds light on the principles of symbolic interactionism, particularly in the context of deviance and survival. The story of the F-227 survivors is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the complexities of social order in extreme circumstances. As the survivors grappled with the harsh realities of their situation, they were forced to confront moral and ethical dilemmas that challenged established group norms. In the face of life-threatening conditions, deviance …show more content…

Their shared experiences and interactions reflect the dynamic and complex nature of symbolic interactionism. A vital component to consider with this theory is resistance to change, which highlights individuals' difficulty when encountering new circumstances or definitions. A crucial aspect of this theory is the resistance to change that individuals face when encountering new circumstances or definitions. The Andes survivors' initial reluctance to accept Canessa's definition of human bodies is a prime example of this challenge. It underscores the difficulty of breaking away from long-held beliefs acquired through socialization and the power of social influence in shaping our perceptions of reality. However, with persistence and support from the group, the new definition gradually gains acceptance. This gradual acceptance demonstrates the intricate dynamics of social influence and extreme change. It also highlights the importance of social support and the role it plays in shaping individuals' perceptions of the world around them (Conerly). The societal taboo against cannibalism is a well-known norm that has been under scrutiny across different cultures and …show more content…

God gave us these bodies and blood to eat" (Henslin). They sought validation and support by framing their actions within a familiar religious framework, mitigating potential ostracism, and preserving their moral integrity. This deviation highlights the intricate interplay between individual agency and societal expectations as individuals navigate the delicate balance between survival and conformity. In conclusion, the case of the F-227 survivors serves as a powerful example of how social construction and symbolic interactionism influence how groups receive deviant behavior. The refusal of some to engage in cannibalism highlights the importance of individual morality and conscience, even in the most extreme of circumstances. Through symbiotic interactionism, we can better understand the intricate dynamics of conformity and deviance, and how individuals construct and navigate social norms. The enduring power of individual conscience in the face of group pressure and survival necessity is a testament to the complexity of human behavior and morality. By examining the F-227 survivors' ordeal through the lens of symbolic interactionism, we can gain a deeper appreciation for social construction's role in shaping individual actions and group