On second-order observation and genuine pretending

Coming to terms with society

Bibliographic Data

ID4480738
AuthorsHans-Georg Moeller (0000-0001-6185-3224, University of Macau, China, corresponding author)
Year2017
Volume143
Issue1
Pages28-43
Publication date2017-12-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueThesis Eleven (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0725-5136 • E-ISSN: 1461-7455
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/0725513617740968
OpenAlexW2773838388
LanguageEN
Citations received13
References cited9

This paper discusses the meaning of the concept of 'second-order observation' used by Niklas Luhmann (1927-1998). Luhmann identifies second-order observation as a defining characteristic of modern world society. According to Luhmann, all social systems construct a social reality on the basis of the observation of observations. Rating agencies in the economy or the peer-review process in the academic system are examples of social mechanisms manifesting second-order observation. Social media also represent organized second-order observation. The paper suggests that in a society based on second-order observation, 'genuine pretending' is an adequate mode of existence. This notion is derived from the Daoist text Zhuangzi. It indicates a disassociation from social roles which allows their performers to exercise these roles with ease and, at the same time, maintain a state of sanity

Economics · Epistemology · Political science · Politics · Social order · Social reality · Social science · Social system · Sociology · Computer Science · Innovation, Sustainability, Human-Machine Systems · Law · Philosophy

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