Reimagining Sociality in the Digital Age

Transcending the Interaction/Society Dichotomy

Bibliographic Data

ID7169262
AuthorsHugo Neri (0000-0001-6065-4661, Center for the Artificial Intelligence University of Sao Paulo São Paulo Brazil), Veridiana Domingos Cordeiro (0000-0001-9666-4386, Department of Sociology University of Sao Paulo São Paulo Brazil, corresponding author)
Year2025
Volume42
Issue2
Pages488-502
Publication date2025-03-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueSystems Research and Behavioral Science (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1092-7026 • E-ISSN: 1099-1743
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1002/sres.3142
OpenAlexW4407497987
LanguageEN
Citations received3
References cited74

This paper argues that digital technologies have not merely transformed social life but have made visible society's fundamental nature as operating through distinct but interconnected systems of communication. The long‐standing interaction/society dichotomy in sociological theory has constrained our understanding of social phenomena, as revealed by digital platforms, algorithmic systems and networked communications. Building on Luhmann's systems theory while engaging with contemporary digital sociology, we develop a theoretical synthesis that reconceptualizes how society operates through autonomous but structurally coupled systems of communication. This framework explains phenomena that resist traditional sociological analysis, from content moderation controversies to algorithmic bias, by showing how different systems process the same events according to distinct operational criteria while remaining interconnected. By moving beyond attempts to bridge micro/macro divisions or reconcile structure/agency dualities, we offer a more fundamental understanding of how society operates in both digital and non‐digital contexts, positioning sociology as part of the scientific system developing productive resonances with other social systems

Biology · Cognitive psychology · Cognitive science · Developmental psychology · Digital society · Epistemology · Media studies · Sociality · Sociology · Contemporary Sociological Theory and Practice · Philosophy · Psychology · Social and Cultural Dynamics · Social Media and Politics · Social Psychology · Ecology

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Open DOIOpen Access