Malavika G NairAIR 45 · CSE 2024 · 237 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
Pattern variables of modality are the choices that present itself to an actor in dilemma and based on cultural norms, the actor select one way of behaviour approach. This dualistic pattern is broader than Tonnies' dichotomy of Gemeinschaft and Gesseleshaft:
Body · points
- Particularism v/s Universalism
- Ascription v/s Achievement
- Quality v/s Performance
- Affectivity v/s Affective Neutrality
- Collective v/s Individual orientation
Critical Review:
Positive Views (1) Broadens the choice to an actor in social situation. (2) Explains the patterned way of social actions and interactions. (3) Provides an objective framework to categorize social action. (4) Culture dictates the choice for actor in situation through socialization. e.g. in family, affectivity v/s Affective Neutrality in jobs.
Limitations of Perspective:
(5) Views an individual as a cultural dope, overly socialized, neglecting individual behavioural maxims - Theodore Abel and weber
(6) Does not explain deviant social choices since culture defines all aspect of pattern variables of modality.
(7) Dualistic presentation of choice is not always present in practice.
(8) Grand theory - Merton which fails to explain any concrete social phenomena. No empirical backing. Purely theoretical.
(9) C.W Mills - status quoist teriology since it does not explain social change and justifies existing cultural system.
(10) macro level enquiry which does not account for real life behaviour of people - Schutz and Ethnomethodologists
Close · a summary
The Pattern variables still form a useful conceptual tool in understanding Social Action and Systems in entirety.