Self-reference, Mutual Identification and Affect

The Parsonsian Problem of Order Reconsidered

Dados Bibliográficos

ID2404512
AutoresHon‐fai Chen (0000-0002-3113-7726, Chinese University of Hong Kong, autor correspondente), Hon-Fai Chen (Chinese University of Hong Kong)
Ano2004
Volume4
Fascículo3
Páginas259-288
Data de publicação2004-11-01
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoJournal of Classical Sociology (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 1468-795X • E-ISSN: 1741-2897
EditoraSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/1468795x04046968
OpenAlexW2061202876
IdiomaEN
Citações recebidas3
Referências citadas56

In this article I argue that in Parsons' later works there is an implicit alternative to his normative solution to the problem of order. Luhmann's theory of self-reference and Pizzorno's notion of mutual identification are firstly invoked to recast the Parsonsian problematic in a 'post-normative' light. On the basis of Parsons' later theory of societal solidarity, ritual and myth, I propose further that his concept of symbolic communication of affect delineates the process through which individuals recognize each other and thereby constitute social order. Mediated with symbols that are grounded in the human condition, communication of affect may substitute institutionalization of value to be the condition of possibility of social order. I also demonstrate that the significance of affect is a theme shared by the Chinese tradition of Confucianism, which is introduced to refine the humanistic intent of Parsons' theory and broaden its scope of applicability outside the Western context

Epistemology · Institutionalisation · Normative · Political science · Sociology · Solidarity · Computer Science · Contemporary Sociological Theory and Practice · Critical Realism in Sociology · Critical Theory and Philosophy · Law · Philosophy · Psychology · Social Psychology