Structuration Theory

Question 1

Who is the key thinker associated with structuration theory?

Answer 1

Anthony Giddens.

Question 2

What does the duality of structure mean?

Answer 2

Structure and action are two sides of the same coin and cannot exist without each other. Through our actions we produce and reproduce structures, and these structures make our actions possible.

Question 3

How does language illustrate the duality of structure?

Answer 3

Language has rules of grammar that determine meaning, so we must follow these rules for communication. This shows that action (communication) depends on structure (grammar). However, without action the structure would not exist because grammar requires use. Language also changes through action as words gain new meanings or new words are created.

Question 4

What are the two elements of structure?

Answer 4

1) Rules – norms, customs and laws governing action. 2) Resources – economic resources such as materials and technology, and power over others.

Question 5

What is the first way that action reproduces existing structures?

Answer 5

Rules provide a stock of knowledge that we apply in daily life. By using resources during everyday activities (e.g., spending money) we reproduce structures.

Question 6

What is the second way that action reproduces existing structures?

Answer 6

Actions reinforce existing structures because people seek to maintain the status quo.

Question 7

What does ontological security mean?

Answer 7

The need to feel that the world is orderly and stable. This encourages actions that maintain existing structures rather than change them.

Question 8

What is reflexive monitoring?

Answer 8

Constantly reflecting on our actions and their consequences so we can adjust them as needed.

Question 9

What are unintended consequences of action?

Answer 9

Actions may change the world in ways we did not intend. For example, Calvinists adopted the Protestant work ethic to glorify God but unintentionally helped develop modern capitalism.

Question 10

What is Margaret Archer’s evaluation of Giddens?

Answer 10

She argues Giddens underestimates how strongly structures can resist change. People may want change but lack the power, such as slaves who could not abolish slavery or Protestants persecuted for changing beliefs.

Question 11

What is Craib’s evaluation of structuration theory?

Answer 11

He argues structuration is not really a theory but a description of what sociologists find. He also says Giddens fails to explain how the theory applies to large-scale structures such as the economy or the state.