reflexive modernity

Question 1

(Beck 1992)

Answer 1

society is becoming highly reflexive meaning that it is becoming its own theme

Question 2

(Smart 1999)

Answer 2

As questioning reason is central to our society in this era, it is fair to state that we have become highly reflexive

Question 3

(Giddens 1990)

Answer 3

thought and action are constantly reflected upon each other meaning that social practices are constantly examined and reformed due to new information

Question 4

What is the context for this debate?

Answer 4

After the collapse of the USSR, apparent triumph of liberal democracy and intensive consumer capitalism.
Sociologists wanted to capture this without using Marxist or postmodern explanations

Question 5

What is the global context for increased reflexivity (according to Giddens)?

Answer 5

1) globalisation (information proliferation)
2) global cosmopolitan
3) manufactured uncertainty
4) social reflexivity

Question 6

What are the social outcomes from increased reflexivity

Answer 6

1) De-traditionalization
2) Individualisation
3) need for active trust

Question 7

According to Giddens, what are the four main institutions in modern life?

Answer 7

1) capitalism
2) surveillance capacities
3) industrialisation
4) military power