Abstract
This paper seeks to explore the implications of Elias's conceptual framework and of his theoretical-empirical investigations for the study of long-term social processes. It emphasizes the centrality of the non-intentional orderedness of social interdependences and their dynamics for Elias's conception of social `structure' and for his frame of reference (2). It is in this context that his specific concept of `power' has to be understood (3) and acquires primal relevance as a tool for the reconstruction and explanation of the processual structures of long-term societal developments (4). The second part of the paper (4- 7) interprets Elias's studies of `the civilizing process' in the light of the preceding discussion of his theoretical approach, devoting attention to - among other things - the problem of physical force and its monopolization, and to the analysis of `rationalization' (in Weber's sense). The last section (7) hints at the conclusions to be drawn for an adequate understanding and conceptualization of the developmental processes of societies.
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