Structure, Interaction and Social Theory (RLE Social Theory)

Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Sociology
Cover of the book Structure, Interaction and Social Theory (RLE Social Theory) by Derek Layder, Taylor and Francis
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Derek Layder ISBN: 9781317650669
Publisher: Taylor and Francis Publication: August 21, 2014
Imprint: Routledge Language: English
Author: Derek Layder
ISBN: 9781317650669
Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Publication: August 21, 2014
Imprint: Routledge
Language: English

A central problem in contemporary social theory is that of providing an account of social interaction that does justice both to the self-monitoring capacities of the individuals involved and to the society that ‘frames’ the interaction. This book attempts to resolve this problem, arguing for an objectivist or ‘structuralist’ account which does not undervalue the importance of the indexical and negotiated aspects of interaction, and which takes seriously the Marxist-rationalist critique of empiricism and humanism and the associated idea that society should be treated as a supra-individual, preconstituted and constraining object of scientific analysis.

First, Dr Layder pinpoints certain of the strengths and weaknesses of various schools of thought: social psychology (scrutinized in both its sociological and psychological forms), sociology, the Marxist-rationalist approach. Whilst rejecting the mechanistic or naively deterministic theories which are often associated with an objectivist stance, he argues that the productive activities of situated actors must be understood as existing in an articulated relationship with, and within, sets of preconstituted contextual constraints. This thesis is illustrated conceptually by the development of a framework which distinguishes two types and levels of social structure, with different modes of production and reproduction, and empirically by an analysis of aspects of interaction in the occupation of acting.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

A central problem in contemporary social theory is that of providing an account of social interaction that does justice both to the self-monitoring capacities of the individuals involved and to the society that ‘frames’ the interaction. This book attempts to resolve this problem, arguing for an objectivist or ‘structuralist’ account which does not undervalue the importance of the indexical and negotiated aspects of interaction, and which takes seriously the Marxist-rationalist critique of empiricism and humanism and the associated idea that society should be treated as a supra-individual, preconstituted and constraining object of scientific analysis.

First, Dr Layder pinpoints certain of the strengths and weaknesses of various schools of thought: social psychology (scrutinized in both its sociological and psychological forms), sociology, the Marxist-rationalist approach. Whilst rejecting the mechanistic or naively deterministic theories which are often associated with an objectivist stance, he argues that the productive activities of situated actors must be understood as existing in an articulated relationship with, and within, sets of preconstituted contextual constraints. This thesis is illustrated conceptually by the development of a framework which distinguishes two types and levels of social structure, with different modes of production and reproduction, and empirically by an analysis of aspects of interaction in the occupation of acting.

More books from Taylor and Francis

Cover of the book Co-habiting with Ghosts by Derek Layder
Cover of the book The Ethics of Global Poverty by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Apprenticeship: Towards a New Paradigm of Learning by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Medium of Instruction Policies by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Field Theory in Child and Adolescent Psychoanalysis by Derek Layder
Cover of the book The Great Treks by Derek Layder
Cover of the book An International Legal Framework for Geoengineering by Derek Layder
Cover of the book The 'Made in Germany' Champion Brands by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Sport’s Relationship with Other Leisure Industries by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Graphic Lives: Lexi by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Art of Constructivist Teaching in the Primary School by Derek Layder
Cover of the book The Evolving Structure of the East Asian Economic System since 1700 by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Routledge Revivals: Community, Gender, and Individual Identity (1988) by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Employment without Inflation by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Experts Versus Laymen by Derek Layder
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy