Original scientific paper
Elements of Parson's Theory of Ideology
Nenad Fanuko
; Faculty of Philosophy, Rijeka, Croatia
Abstract
Parsons is regarded as the most prominent representative of the “Common culture theory” which is usually understood as an apology of the dominant ideology. Words like values, consensus, integration, solidarity are the key argument in the accusations against Parsons for one-sided view of society as a harmonic whole. In the structural-functional stage of his theory (in The Social System) Parsons speaks about ideology in two ways: firstly, from the point of view of sociology of knowledge and cognitive shortcomings of ideology, and secondly in relation to social functions of ideology – i.e. orientation to integration of collectivity. It follows that his position is originally sociological rather then epistemological one. His conception of ideology is neutral and inclusive. In the context of social change Parsons critically places ideology in the conceptual framework linked with Weber’s rationalisation thesis as well as Durkheim’s differentiation theory. Dynamic interplay between Durkheim’s theory of solidarity and Weber’s theory of rationalisation and charisma shows that Parsons sees ideology inclusively – both as integrative and as “disturbing” factor in social evolution. That can be showed by two concepts from later stage in Parsons’ theory – those of societal community and dedifferentiation. Here ideology comes first as integrating and stabilising (in the form of value-generalisation and inclusion) and second as a dynamic factor (as value fundamentalism and Gemeinschaft). Such a general frame is well suited for understanding of contemporary social processes – e.g. recent nationalistic movements or immigration issues present in highly developed countries.
Keywords
IDEOLOGY; SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY; PARSONS; DIFFUSE SOLIDARITY; DEDIFFERENTIATION
Hrčak ID:
25899
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2002.
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