Late Modernism - Theories of the Family

Question 1

Giddens:

Answer 1

Argues that the structures in society that used to control people’s lives and tell them how to live have died due to individualisation (doing what’s best for you).

We can now end a relationship whenever we want due to this.

• E.g: now focused on confluent love not romantic love. Argues this is due to wanting a pure relationship (partner meets all individual needs).

Question 2

Beck:

Answer 2

Tradition no longer tells us exactly how to live, creates a risk society as we have to be aware of our choices and their consequences.

• People are now Risk Conscious.

E.g: many marriages lead to divorce so we do not take the risk, leads to increased family diversity: less risky family types.

Also have negotiated family due to individualisation and risk consciousness: a discussion on the needs of both partners.

Evaluation (for Giddens too): Criticism with people who say there is no increase in family diversity like Weeks or Chester,

Question 3

Perspective:

Answer 3

They agree that there has been rapid social change that creates choice, but there is also a lot of instability. Says there are more diverse family types.

We are still in the modern era, just a changed era of modernity. This means there is still some possiblity of an objective truth.