reflexive modernity Flashcards
(Beck 1992)
society is becoming highly reflexive meaning that it is becoming its own theme
(Smart 1999)
As questioning reason is central to our society in this era, it is fair to state that we have become highly reflexive
(Giddens 1990)
thought and action are constantly reflected upon each other meaning that social practices are constantly examined and reformed due to new information
What is the context for this debate?
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
What is the global context for increased reflexivity (according to Giddens)?
1) globalisation (information proliferation)
2) global cosmopolitan
3) manufactured uncertainty
4) social reflexivity
What are the social outcomes from increased reflexivity
1) De-traditionalization
2) Individualisation
3) need for active trust
According to Giddens, what are the four main institutions in modern life?
1) capitalism
2) surveillance capacities
3) industrialisation
4) military power