Schutz and Parsons: Debate or dialogue?

Abstract

In 1941, Talcott Parsons and Alfred Schutz had a short-lived but intense intellectual exchange. Richard Grathoff s edition of their correspondence serves as an invitation to continue the debate. Unfortunately, Parsons* death in May of 1979 (two decades after that of Schutz) means that neither of the initial participants can clarify nor defend their original statements. Yet, in light of the importance of the issues dealt with by both writers their debate should continue. The following comments are offered not only as a review of Grathoffs edition and a synopsis of the issues debated, but also as a prospectus which, it is hoped, will encourage a continuation of the dialogue between Schutz and the "early Parsons" (one concerned with 'social action' rather than 'social system').2 With care and great respect for precision, Grathoff has effectively edited, commented on, and translated some of the Schutz-Parsons correspondence. And he has succeeded in offering something to both specialist and beginner. For the specialist, the book rejuvenates interest in the earlier work of Parsons, and serves to enrich one's understanding of Parsons and Schutz as thinkers and people. For the beginner, the book helps one draw key concepts and central issues out of the broad penumbra of ideas related to the notion of "social action." I suggest a purposive reading sequence for the d?butant. Experience the depth and complexity ofthe originals by first reading Parsons' The Structure of Social Action, and then Schutz' The Phenomenology ofthe Social World. Lastly, read Grathoffs text. Such an approach should help one