Action and Its Environments: Toward a New Synthesis by Jeffrey C. Alexander

by Jeffrey C. Alexander

Jeffrey Alexander, known for his work in sociological theory, breaks new ground in Action and Its Environments . The book aims to bring action theory and structure theory back together by focussing on three central questions. First, how can the normative and material properties of social structures be interlinked? Second, can the conventional, creative and strategic dimensions of individual action be related to social structures? Third, what are conditions and limits of modern social and cultural differentiation?In answering these questions Alexander portrays the complex relationship between social movements, public opinion formation, social solidarity, and social change. A new model of the structure and dynamics of cultural systems is presented as well.

Paperback

First published October 15, 1988

About the author

Jeffrey Charles Alexander is an American sociologist, and one of the world's leading social theorists. He is the founding figure in the school of cultural sociology he refers to as the "strong program"