You are a unique individual with a personal identity. At the same time, you belong to many formal and casual social groups. How do those in your social circle influence your personal beliefs and values? How do you reconcile the differences between your beliefs and those of your friends and business associates?

Locus of control is a key factor in social identity and shared belief systems. Are you the guardian of your values and beliefs, or do you find yourself deferring to the perspective of social groups?

Polarized societies, which are increasingly common in many countries, can make it challenging to know where we stand on issues when social pressure or intimidation by power leaders demands loyalty to prescribed beliefs and values.

The posts on this topic will explore the many factors involved in how your self-worldview is molded (or not) by the worldviews of others and your culture.