Symbolic Interactionism: Balinese Cockfighting Observable behavior is the pivot upon which symbolic interactionism revolves around. However, it is not the behavior per se but the covert and overt aspects and the interactions that utilize these behaviors that carry the symbolisms and meanings. In the article, cockfighting is the observed behavior and through it, a whole cultural identity is revealed. Cockfighting could very much be the physical manifestation of an otherwise subdued strain of culture which glorifies men and their masculinity in the Balinese society. The interaction of the men with their cocks highlights the cock as the physical object as the center of a dynamic display of symbolic interactionism. For example, as foreshadowed by the obvious double entendre, the cocks in Bali villages are masculine symbols. Moreover, its metaphorical uses run in the lines of “hero” and “tough guy”. The big event that is cockfighting shows the importance that the society places upon these masculine concepts. Therefore, the Balinese men show utmost reverence for their cocks not only because they are pried fighters, but also because of the symbolism it carries for them. This, in turn, reflects a core principle of the theory wherein behavior is based on the meaning given to the object receiving the behavior and action. With the object being the cocks and the symbolism being their masculinity and ego, there have been practices as frequent grooming, bathing and even hand-feeding of the animals that show a reflexivity where cocks are equal to men’s ego. Furthermore, the exclusion of women in this practice, for example, the avoidance of having women see the spurs or tadji, is indicative of the gender status and roles in their culture. These rituals and practices reveal sources and forces of cultural meanings.

The concept of cocks and how they are viewed are also