Talcott Parsons and the Theory of Action. I. The Structure of the Kantian Core

Abstract

This essay presents the thesis that a correct understanding of Talcott Parson's writings must begin form the assumption of a fundamental congruence of basic structure and method between the theory of action and Kant's critical philosophy. It is already generally understood that this congruence holds true on the metalevel of epistemological assumptions. It is less understood that the Kantian form of argument penetrates down to the level of the object theory of the general theory of action. The core of action theory is the notion that concrete action is to be explained as a result of the inner laws and the characteristic interrelations of analytically distinct subsystems of action. Thus the Parsonian solution to the central problem of social order is not "utilitarian"; nor, however, is it in any simple sense "normative", as it is often taken to be. Parson's solution lies instead in the notion of the "interpenetration" of distinct subsystems of action. This notion of interpenetration is a derivative of Kantian transcendental philosophy. In this sense, a Kantian "core" structures the theoretical development must be understood as a progressive elaboration and refinement of this central core.