SOC231H5 Lecture : Jan 17.doc
Document Summary
Structure sociologically, it refers to those networks of. Social relationships which constrain or allow certain types. Of behaviour: the social structure allows for certain kinds of constraints; allows you to make decisions within certain boundaries, current structure: capitalism this structure conditions our behaviour and social institutions. Within the structure, agency comes into play. Agency intentional activity: within a structure, we have different options for agency, the structure does not completely determine our behaviour. So, people have some degree of agency within any social structure. Constant tension between structure & agency: some leeway but also limits. A university as a structure: constrains behaviour of the people in this structure (ie. must be quiet while in lecture/library, must act according to rules of conduct) Society is about the constant tension between structure and. Way of understanding how societies have changed over time. Not a formula for predicting the future.
