Face (sociological concept)

In sociology, face refers to a class of behaviors and customs, associated with the morality, honor, and authority of an individual (or group of individuals), and their image within social groups. Face is linked to the dignity and prestige that a person enjoys in terms of their social relationships. This idea, with varying nuances, is observed in many societies and cultures, including Chinese, Arab, Indonesian, Korean, Malaysian, Laotian, Indian, Japanese, Vietnamese, Filipino, Thai, Persian, Russian, and other East Slavic cultures. The usage of "face" in the English language is borrowed from Chinese. Face has particularly complex dynamics and meanings within the context of Chinese culture and is closely associated with Confucianism. The Chinese concept of face has also heavily influenced the cultures of Japan, Vietnam and Korea.