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 Technical Communication After the Social Justice Turn by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Singapore, the Energy Economy by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Reading Dante Gabriel Rossetti by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Outdoor Learning in the Early Years by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Jackie Wilson by Derek Layder
Cover of the book The Non-Western World by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Disabled Justice? by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Nursing Education in Thanatology by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Sovereign Flower - Wilson Kni by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Routledge Handbook of Physical Activity Policy and Practice by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Practical Neuropsychological Rehabilitation in Acquired Brain Injury by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Routledge International Handbook of Cosmopolitanism Studies by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Language, Symbolization, and Psychosis by Derek Layder
Cover of the book The Principles and Practice of Group Work in Addictions by Derek Layder
Cover of the book Decision-Making Groups and Teams 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