Modernity's Machine Metaphor

Abstract

Discussions of «modernity» have been influenced by mechanical metaphors of the type to be found in Weber's writings on religion and politics. Through a detailed examination of Maurice Halbwachs' analysis of collective memory and social order, the appropriateness of these mechanical metaphors is called into question. It is argued that the Durkheimian school generally has a more nuanced account of the nature of «modern» society; one which pays closer attention to the cultural preconditions of the workings of machine-like modern organizations and social relations. At the core of these organizational forms is actors' capacity to act appropriately which is in turn grounded in tacit knowledge which cannot be deduced from formal procedures or explicit rules