The Social Construction of the Body

The social construction of the body refers to how society shapes our understanding, meaning, and norms about our bodies. Cultural beliefs, media, and social interactions influence how we perceive body size, beauty, gender, and health. These ideas aren't fixed or natural; they are created through social processes and can vary across different cultures and historical periods. This concept helps us understand that our views about bodies are influenced by societal context, rather than being purely biological or personal choices.