What is meant by the "social construction of reality"?

The phrase "social construction of reality" refers to the theory that our understanding of what is real is heavily influenced by the beliefs, practices, and interactions that are prevalent within a society or culture. This means that our perceptions, knowledge, and experiences are not just reflections of an objective reality but are formed and modified through social processes.

For example, concepts such as gender roles, norms surrounding behavior, and even definitions of truth can vary significantly from one culture to another, demonstrating that what we see as 'real' is often a product of collective social agreement and cultural context rather than an unchanging fact. This approach emphasizes that reality is not just a physical or objective phenomenon but is also shaped by human relationships and cultural contexts.

In contrast, the other options suggest viewpoints that do not recognize the role of social factors in shaping reality, either denying the influence of societal norms or emphasizing a more individualistic or scientific reductionist approach.