Sociological Theory Research Articles

The Making of New Elites and the Reproduction of Social Inequality at St. Paul’s: An Analysis from the Perspective of Classical Sociological Theories

This paper examines how social inequality is reproduced in elite educational institutions through a meritocratic system, using Shamus Khan’s Privilege: The Making of Adolescent Elite at St. Paul’s School as a case study. Drawing upon classical sociological theories, including Goffman’s performance theory, Weber’s work ethic, and Veblen’s concept of vicarious consumption, the paper explores how the new elite learn to maintain their social status. It argues that, while the appearance of diversity and meritocracy in these elite spaces suggests equality, these institutions continue to cultivate privilege through subtle yet powerful social practices. Key mechanisms include the cultivation of 'ease' in social situations, the performance of 'hard work,' and the idealization of students as inherently extraordinary. The study also investigates the role of elite parents, arguing that sending children to prestigious schools serves as a form of vicarious consumption, displaying the family's wealth and social capital. Despite the appearance of openness and fluid social mobility, the paper concludes that access to elite training remains restricted, reinforcing entrenched inequalities.

Economic Sociology and Management in the spectrum of modern managerial and economic ideas

The article is devoted to the radical transformation of the structure of knowledge in modern economic sociology and managerial theory, to the transition from slender hierarchies of ideas (the top of which consists of a small number of axioms, and the base of which consists of multiple specific recommendations) to the postmodern market of concepts. The authors made a comparative analysis of such transformation in economic sociology and managerial theory, revealed general regularities and specific factors that determined the difference between the scientific fields of these science. The latter include: 1) subjects conducting scientific research (in managerial theory, along with scientists, managers, consultants, people somehow connected with business were engaged in such practice), 2) a terminology of sciences (in managerial theory, a specific language for communication between managers and employees was actively created), 3) the use of marketing and PR-technologies to promote ideas. The totality of these factors determined a special “landscape” of the subject areas of economic sociology and managerial theory.The article concludes that despite the existing problems caused by multiparadigmality, the emerging “flexible” format of socio-humanitarian knowledge opens new opportunities for creativity in rapid changes of social reality, obsolescence of classical approaches to its cognition, as well as the realization of the variety of phenomena and processes in the field of economics and management.In such situation, each scientific team should choose its own special place in the exhibition of ideas, create its own “exhibits” attractive to the scientific community and the general public. Among the variety of topical and demanded research directions, the article identifies three key thematic blocks reflecting the scientific priorities of the Department of Economic Sociology and Management of Moscow University: 1) institutional changes and institutional context of socio-economic and managerial processes, 2) aging population and digitalization as key factors of economic and management transformation, 3) socio-economic processes and phenomena in the mirror of digital communication.

From Superdiversity to Social Difference: A Critique of Vertovec’s Paradigm Shift

Due to Vertovec’s standing as a celebrated social theorist and his influence, we wish to discuss his condensation of sociology's most crucial concepts to make a convenient model of "the social organization of difference." Having performed a close reading of Vertovec's works, from the era in which he touted "super-diversity" up to his phrasing of "difference," we have concerns that his body of work leaves out the collective experiences of the "Global South," perhaps unintentionally. In charting this so-called difference, Vertovec limits his scope of discourse to the boundaries of his knowledge. Yet, he is optimistic about positing this model as a one-size-fits-all approach, encompassing the entire human experience. We use examples from the Global South, focusing on the postcolonial societies of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore, to illustrate the gaps in Vertovec's approach. We do not wish to debunk Vertovec's ideas entirely; we merely want to signpost the existence of other "different" experiences. Thus, we apply the theories of Southeast Asian scholars to extend this scope of discourse—everyday-defined realities, the social organization of difference, and sociological theory.

POLITICAL CONFLICT IN LAUT BERCERITA BY LEILA S. CHUDORI: INSIGHTS FROM NEW HISTORICISM

This research investigates the political conflict depicted in Leila S. Chudori's novel Laut Bercerita, focusing on the portrayal of the student’s movement and authoritarian regime dominated by military force in Indonesia during the New Order era. Drawing on the theories of Sociology of Literature and New Historicism, the study aims to analyze the socio-political dynamics embedded within the narrative. The qualitative descriptive method is employed to examine the text in-depth, considering its historical significance and literary merits. Through close textual analysis, the research reveals the intricate interplay between fiction and reality, shedding light on the experiences of activists and the repressive tactics of the regime. The novel vividly captures the determination, struggles, and sacrifices of student activists as they challenge authoritarian rule, providing valuable insights into Indonesia's socio-political landscape. Additionally, the study explores the ways in which literature serves as a vehicle for social critique and historical remembrance, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Chudori's work in contemporary discourse. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of Indonesian history and literature, underscoring the importance of literature as a tool for socio-political commentary and cultural preservation.

ASSESSING THE FEASIBILITY OF MALANG RAYA MOSQUES IN THE RELIGIOUS MODERATION PROGRAM

<p>This article aims to assess the feasibility of Malang Raya mosques in the Religious Moderation Program through the perspective of Durkheim, Parsons, and Merton’s functionalist sociological theories. Employing a qualitative approach, the research utilizes a case study methodology across multiple sites, specifically Al-Ghozali Mosque (Islamic education institution area), Al-Mukhlisin Mosque (residential area), and Al-Barokah Mosque (housing area). The findings align with four indicators of religious moderation: First, all three mosques fulfill the National Commitment standards based on empirical data related to organic solidarity that fosters a functional society, as evidenced by the manifest and latent functions exhibited by the mosques in the context of national commitment (Mu’ahadah Wataniyyah) and adherence to laws (Dusturiyyah). Second, the mosques meet the tolerance standards through their affiliations with mass organizations, namely Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyyah, which have historically demonstrated tolerance (Tasamuh), as well as the principle of justice (‘Adliyyah) upheld through financial transparency and accountability. Third, the mosques satisfy the anti-violence standards through programs promoting care and compassion (Rahamutiyyah) for women, children, the elderly, orphans, and the impoverished, alongside the active involvement of women (Mubadalah) in mosque activities, mainly as educators and staff at Al-Qur’an Learning Centre (Taman Pendidikan Al-Qur’an or TPQ) affiliated with the mosque. Fourth, the mosques adhere to the standards for acceptance of tradition through activities that reflect local traditional values (‘Urfiyyah), such as the mosque's architectural style; humanity (Insaniyyah), exemplified by economic assistance for disaster victims; and public welfare (Maslahah), demonstrated by their concern for the rights of road users.</p>

THE CONSTRUCTION OF JAVANESE ISLAMIC ETHICS IN SERAT WEDHATAMA: KARL MANNHEIM'S SOCIOLOGY OF KNOWLEDGE APPROACH

<p><em>As a ruler who contributed to the revival of Javanese culture, especially in literature, Mangkunegara IV is mentioned as a ruler and a poet. One of the largest and most famous of his many literary works is "Serat Wedhatama". "Serat Wedhatama" is a manifestation of Mangkunegara IV's concern and sensitivity to the situation of the people at that time who experienced a moral crisis due to the influx of foreign cultures, he wrote many teachings on virtuousness that were by the personality of the Javanese people. This study seeks to identify the concept of Javanese Islamic Ethics in "Serat Wedhatama" and its construction according to Karl Mannheim's sociological theory of knowledge. This research is a type of qualitative research by applying the literature study method. The results of this study indicate that the concepts carried out in the teachings of Javanese Islamic Ethics in "Serat Wedhatama" are in the form of life guidelines that are tailored to the personality of "Javanese" as well as containing teachings of Islamic values. The teachings of ethics in "Serat Wedhatama" contain the teachings of human ethics towards others and human ethics towards God. The construction of Islamic Ethical values in "Serat Wedhatama" when viewed with the sociological theory of knowledge of Karl Mannheim refers to the historical social background of Mangkunegara IV when compiling "Serat Wedhatama". From a historical point of view, a very influential factor is heredity. Mangkunegara IV had close kinship with the previous three rulers who were religious circles. Born from a religious family supporting Mangkunegara IV grew up with a religious spirit. Embedding of a religious soul since childhood influences the output of his thoughts. It is natural when Mangkunegara IV through "Serat Wedhatama" expects Javanese to behave according to their personality, as well as act according to the actions taught in Islam.</em></p>

Learning Design isn’t a profession (yet)

This symposium aims to identify key barriers and opportunities in developing learning design as a recognized profession through three provocative discussions. The first provocation challenges the distinctions among learning designers, instructional designers, educational technologists, and similar roles. The goal is to explore the potential for a unified professional identity. The second provocation addresses the lack of official recognition for learning designers, examining sociological theories of professionalization, the implications of formalizing the field, and possible next steps. The third provocation asks what could and should be included in a formal education pathway. As a starting point this provocation will include the comparison of curricula from Monash University, Queensland University of Technology, and University of Technology Sydney. Attendees will engage in lively discussions and contribute insights to advance the recognition and development of learning design as a profession.

Aesthetic Learning Spaces: An Investigation into the Status in Danish Early Childhood Teacher Education

The aim of this article is to delve into and discuss the past and present conditions of aesthetic learning spaces in the Early Childhood Teacher Education (ECTE) program in Denmark, and how these conditions impact its learning environment. The investigation encompasses a variety of data sources and research methods aimed at capturing both the intricate and broader aspects of the focal question. The investigation includes (1) a discussion of educational reforms and how they affect aesthetic learning spaces, (2) a discourse analysis examining the descriptions of new iterations of aesthetic learning spaces, including makerspaces and playlabs, and (3) qualitative interviews with students and educators conducted during a building workshop. The study’s key discovery is that aesthetic learning spaces in ECTE have undergone a shift, becoming spaces that emphasize generic skills and academic abilities, as opposed to domain-specific tools and techniques. In the article, this transformation is connected to broader societal trends and analyzed through the lenses of sociological, educational and creativity theories, drawing upon the work of scholars such as Richard Sennett, Lene Tanggaard and John Krejsler. At the article’s conclusion, future topics for study are suggested.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Stock Market Investments: A Neomarxist Approach to Alternative Socioeconomic Funding Agendas for National State Revenue Accumulation

In the contemporary economic, sociological and political landscape, the successful integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) computer programs into the predicted behaviour of stock market value in the financial markets represents a profound burgeoning frontier in economics, with profound implications for both wealth generation and national budget resource allocation. This paper explores the potential sociopolitical economic strategy of using AI-driven stock market prediction predictions to cumulatively accumulate capital funded for by taxpayer sourced representative income. As the baseline return accumulates in the form of investment potential then as a means of revenue accumulation for the state then the burden of the national budget upon its citizens decreases then ceases. This is the theorisation of the establishment of a Marxist economic social superstructure for the funding of social institutions through the powerful potential of artificial intelligence. By leveraging a portion of the national budget on advanced AI technologies, this strategy could dramatically facilitate the financial sustenance of political budgets aimed at social equity and economic justice. Through a critical review of sociological and economic theories, this theoretical research delineates exactly how such an approach could potentially reconfigure the mode of production and contribute to the reformation of a sustainable socialist economy.

The Dual‐Edged State Paradox: Fighting for Justice When the State is Unreliable

Sociological theories of collective resistance offer insights into how communities mobilize against oppression but often overlook the complexities when the state, an entity relied upon for justice, also acts as an agent of betrayal. Based on 8 years of ethnographic research in Palermo (2016–2024), this study examines the relationship between Sicilian activists and the state, shaped by the dual forces of mafia oppression and state complicity. The present research explores how activists navigate the complexities of collective trauma rooted in state complicity, while simultaneously relying on parts of the state as indispensable allies in their fight for justice. The study introduces the “Dual‐Edged State Paradox,” as a novel framework that captures this contradictory relationship. To navigate the paradox, activists adopt two key strategies: ‘fragmented trust dynamics’ and ‘layered collective resistance’. These strategies illustrate how activists continually recalibrate trust and engage in multi‐layered resistance, adjusting their approach to balance public protest with collaboration based on the positioning of different state actors. This research contributes to our sociological knowledge on collective action, particularly in settings where activists grapple with both external violence of non‐state actors and internal betrayal from the state apparatus.

Using normalisation process theory (NPT) to explore implementation of the maternal perinatal death surveillance and response (MPDSR) policy in Uganda: a reflection

BackgroundThe implementation of the maternal perinatal death surveillance and response (MPDSR) policy is among the envisaged strategies to reduce the high global burden of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. However, implementation of this policy across various contexts is inconsistent. Theoretically informed approaches to process evaluation can support assessment the implementation of policy interventions such as MPDSR, particularly in understanding what the actors involved actually do. In this article, we reflect on how the normalisation process theory (NPT) was used to explore implementation of the MPDSR policy in Uganda. NPT is a sociological theory concerned with the social organisation of the work (implementation) of making practices routine elements of everyday life (embedding) and of sustaining embedded practices in their social contexts (integration).MethodsThis qualitative multiple case study conducted across eight districts in Uganda and among 10 health facilities (cases) representing four out of the seven levels of the Uganda health care system. NPT was utilised in several ways including informing the study design, structuring the data collection tools (semi-structured interview guides), providing an organising framework for analysis, interpreting and reporting of study findings as well as making recommendations. Study participants were purposely selected to reflect the range of actors involved in the policy implementation process. This included direct care providers located at each of the cases, the Ministry of Health and from agencies and professional associations. Data were collected using semi-structured, in-depth interviews and were inductively and deductively analysed using NPT constructs and subconstructs.Results and conclusionNPT served useful for process evaluation, particularly in identifying factors that contribute to variations in policy implementation. Considering the NPT focus on the agency of people involved in implementation, additional efforts are required to understand how recipients of the policy intervention influence how the intervention becomes embedded within the various contexts.

Introduction: Social theorists and the First World War

This Special Issue examines the ways in which emerging or established social theorists from Continental Europe and the United States were personally and politically involved in and affected by the First the First World War (WWI), and considers how the war shaped their sociological theories. WWI was a pivotal moment that transformed global and historical systems in ways that challenged conventional social scientific assumptions about the supposed shift from “traditional” to “modern” societies and compelled sociologists to reconsider the impact of industry and military affairs on everyday life. The period from 1914 to 1918 has typically been ignored or bracketed by later scholars as a largely inconsequential gap in an otherwise uninterrupted flow of intellectual production. By considering not only individual theorists and their social networks but also the transformation of the discipline as a whole, the contributors to this Special Issue offer a systematic assessment of the relevance of this formative period in the development of sociological theory and of the impact of war in shaping the modern world. The Editors’ Introduction highlights how the scale and intensity of the total war that engaged the countries of Europe and North America in 1914 came as a shock to most intellectuals, even though nationalistic wars had become familiar to them from the precious century. The central role of nation-states in carrying out what was at the time was called the European War, and later came to be known as the First World War, made it impossible for social scientists and other intellectuals in the belligerent countries to remain neutral. Even those who were not directly active in or publicly vocal about the war felt compelled to take a stand, and many reached their highest level of public visibility and political influence during the WWI era, often beyond the reputation they achieved before or after. The complex problems emerging within the nation-state system that the war had exposed renewed their sense of professional duty and patriotic loyalty while focussing their attention on questions concerning the geopolitics of international warfare and peace; the role of the modern state and its bureaucratic institutions; the nature of civil society and ethnic communities; the forces of political economy and cultural mobilization; and the emancipatory potential of colonial capitalism and racialized imperialism.

AT THE BORDER OF TWO WORLDS Role options of the “distantiated spectator” in Vadoma by Anna Vörös

The debut volume of Anna Vörös is a unique and solitary voice in contemporary Hungarian literature referring to the representation of refugees. The author is actively practicing psychology and worked as a volunteer in hot zones of the migrant crisis, so she had the chance to learn about different aspects of the crisis from the inside. By collecting experiences, she built out a literary universe with an authentic voice. Her narrative can be defined as close to the triple structure of distant suffering theory by Luc Boltanski. The model of Boltanski features three categories of which the third is the “distantiated spectator”: who instead of playing the role of furious and delivering justice, rather interprets and experiences mediatized suffering in its historical context and process. The cycle of prose featuring the Syrian heroine in its metaphors and symbols avoids the traps of topoi and common places of storytelling based on “contentless pathos” and “colonizing, colonial and postcolonial point of view”. Anna Vörös in a revealing and documentarist tone approaches the arrival experience of masses coming to Europe – this experience may be described by sociological, cultural anthropological, and spatial theories while using various topics and situations. In her model motifs like the moment of spotting the sea or land, crossing them, and winning the battle over physical barriers, are melted into contemporary European refugee literature as well as tendencies in film, fine art, as well as media representations of the topic. The paper is an attempt to discover this question in its complexity.

Social And Cultural Identity Of Traditional Gringsing And Bantenan Weaving Cloth

The research conducted by Merdeka and Merdeka Belajar Campus (MBKM) focuses on the socio-cultural identity of Gringsing of Bali and Bantenan of Minahasa traditional woven cloth. The unique patterns, motifs, and identities of these traditional woven cloths within Balinese and Minahasa cultures are explored. The research aims to identify and describe these fabrics' social and cultural identity through an explanatory, descriptive, qualitative approach. Drawing on the sociological theory of fashion and clothing by Diana Crane and Laura Bovone, the research seeks to highlight the distinctive styles and motifs of Gringsing and Bantenan woven fabrics. Additionally, the study aims to uncover the evolving philosophical significance of Gringsing and Bantenan woven cloth. These fabrics have transitioned from solely used in traditional and religious activities to now being incorporated into everyday attire, including office uniforms and other social engagements. Gringsing and Bantenan woven fabrics showcase a variety of motifs, colors, and patterns, such as flora and fauna designs. The use of these traditional woven cloths from Gringsing and Bantenan serves as a means to express individual and collective social and regional identities. Moreover, given their significant domestic and international demand, these fabrics can serve as communication tools in cultural exchanges, thereby embodying the social identity of the Indonesia]

DELINEATING TOXIC MASCULINITY IN TANA FRENCH’S THE WITCH ELM

This article explores the concept of toxic masculinity in The Witch Elm (2018), a novel by Tana French, using R.W. Connell's theory of hegemonic masculinity and Amy Wharton's sociology of gender frameworks. The research focuses on the protagonist, Toby, who shows toxic masculine traits such as emotional suppression, independence, aggression, and vulnerability avoidance. The study uses qualitative descriptive analysis, examining key scenes in the novel in which these behaviors manifest, especially in relation to family and romantic partners. Through this analysis, the findings reveal how toxic masculinity not only contributes to Toby's deteriorating mental health but also isolates him emotionally, resulting in damaged relationships and increased psychological distress. Ultimately, the article concludes that toxic masculinity extends emotional isolation, reinforcing harmful gender norms that prevent men from seeking support or expressing vulnerability. The research contributes to a broader discourse on how societal expectations of masculinity negatively impact individual males while continuing gender inequality. The study highlights the importance of challenging these norms to foster healthier emotional expression, stronger relationships, and more fair gender dynamics in society.

The role and value of professional membership for emergency nurses: What are the key elements?

Granovetter (1973) wrote on the ‘Strength of Weak Ties’, even though published all those years ago, there was value and recognition placed on the strength of smaller group interactions and how they can impact on more macro level patterns, the same sociological theory holds true today. There are strengths in professional memberships, whether they are conducted on a small or large scale. They are powerful vessels for nurses to have impactful interactions. We recognize that professional memberships for nursing are available globally, whether that is through a local, national, or international organization. They offer a broad range of opportunities including education, bursaries, conferences, networking, and leadership opportunities. They are seen to connect and engage with peers and in some countries professional organizations also drive change, politically lobby, or even offer professional indemnity insurance or union support. Despite a strong presence in nursing professional organizations, the evidence shows that membership is declining or staying stagnant, and it is growing more difficult to bring nurses together through these channels. So, the question must be asked, ‘Why do nurses not strongly engage with professional organizations?’ This study focuses on emergency nurses to gain a greater understanding of drivers for professional membership and engagement.

An Analytical Theoretical Study of Terrorism According to the Social Action Theory of ‘Talcott Parsons’ as an Instance of Sociological Theories

The main focus of sociology is presenting the social life of people and their behaviours, whether in groups or societies. Sociology, usually, is defined as a field of research which studies the social interaction between people and their behaviours. Thus the sociological theories and scholars have given great importance to social action concept. In this study, which is an extract from a PhD dissertation, the terrorism has analysed sociologically according to the Talcott Parsons’ theory of social action. Since terrorism is one of the common social phenomena around the world, it has various factors and reasons that vary according to the communities’ nature of life. Terrorism, also, is a concept which used for any violent acts committed by an organization, an individual or a group. It has been experienced by humanity in many different ways throughout different eras. Therefore this study has tried to determine a theoretical framework for analysing and reviewing this phenomenon besides talking about it according to the reality of society and its most important causes and effects on the life of society and individuals. Because the Parsons’ theory serves the study aims and gives us the opportunity of conducting and analysing the study in a more detailed approach, it has been utilised for the current study. The main aim of the study is to analyse the phenomenon of terrorism from the perspective of “Talcott Parsons' theory of social action as a sociological theory”.

‘Everywhere you get models of what you should be like’: ideals of masculinity and therapeutic culture constraining young men’s mental health and gendered subjectivities

ABSTRACT This paper presents a novel approach to youth mental health by examining the connections between young Finnish men’s mental health, ideals of masculinity, and public discourses of mental health. Drawing from critical sociological and feminist theories on gender, power, and therapeutic culture, we apply a thematic discursive analysis to a questionnaire data (n = 910) about men’s mental health targeted at young men (primarily aged 15-29). The findings illustrate how young Finnish men consider ‘traditional’ ideals of masculinity widespread in Finland, restricting the actions of men, and upheld by narrow representations of gender. In addition, young men display critical reactions to the public discourses of mental health, especially the ones they feel are repeated in the media. These discourses are seen as insufficient and too individualised, echoing therapeutic culture. Based on our results, we argue that the highly individualised and gendered discourses of mental health, deriving from therapeutic culture and rooted in Finnish cultural and institutional practices, are inadequate for supporting young men’s mental health. Instead, these practices can create a vicious cycle where the often-well-intended efforts can limit and guide young men towards restricted gendered possibilities to express themselves, talk about mental health, and seek support if needed.

Teoría Sociológica en la trama curricular de la formación en Psicopedagogía

The purpose of this work is to describe and interpret the pedagogical experience that, from the curricular space of Sociological Theory, as a social science, epistemological, methodological, theoretical, and ethical perspectives are deployed to address the object of study of Psychopedagogy, and to intervene regarding the social subject in a learning situation. Sociology, as a teaching space, together with other pedagogical spaces, enriches the career of professionals in Psychopedagogy, and it recognizes a set of tensions that accompany the interaction processes between various disciplines of the Social Sciences. An attempt is made to provide lenses from which to look dialectically at the learning subjects and all those who intervene in this process, with possible readings of the multiple, diverse, and complex social reality. A search is recognized to define the intersection of disciplinary fields of the Social Sciences, where many come into relationship, such as educational, sociological, historical, and psychopedagogical fields, among others.

Social Infrastructure and Organizational Resilience - A Theoretical Model

Abstract Background Considering resilience as a necessity for health care organisations (HCOs), many researchers argue that fluidity is a must and that organisational structures (formal and informal) hinder the adaptability and resilience of health care organisations. Contrary to this statement, my thesis posits that fundamental adaptive processes leading to new equilibria depend on a stable core that persists amidst change, enabling and catalysing these transformations. Methods The phenomenon of resilience within healthcare organisations is examined through the lens of sociological systems theory. Rooted in Talcott Parsons’ assertion that social systems, including healthcare organisations, must perform four basic functions (Adaptation, Goal Achievement, Integration, Latency: AGIL) to survive and function, our research uses the deductive method to derive the necessary structural social components required to cope with external demands. Results The application of the methods yields four complex basic structures rooted in the social structure of healthcare organisations: adaptive structures (flexible structures & resource generating structures), goal achievement structures (governance enabling collective goal setting, decision making and persistence), integrative structures (social capital and social networks) and sustainability structures (socialisation structure, knowledge base, organisational culture). Conclusions As the core of stability, this ‘four-component social infrastructure’ is essential for facilitating higher-order forms of resilience, such as new equilibria. In its absence, healthcare organisations would flounder during change, posing risks to the resilience of these HCOs. Thus, structure is indeed inherent in the chaos of resilience activities. In other words, there is order in the chaos of resilience, and it is essential. Key messages • Fundamental adaptive processes leading to new equilibria depend on a stable core that persists amidst change, enabling and catalysing these transformations. • There is order and structure in the chaos of resilience.