This chapter develops the theoretical framework adopted in this book. It argues that many of the noteworthy transformative developments induced by the internet are not causally linked in a deterministic way, but rather, they have concurrently emerged with digitalized information and the evolution of structures that belong to the digital realm. Structuration theory offers a fruitful lens to examine the interplay between macro-level structures and systems (of the digital realm) and individual actions that constitute societal trends. The chapter contrasts the chosen theoretical framework with other theories such as Bourdieu’s theory of practice and Castells’ network society, and it likewise addresses critiques of structuration theory. Despite these criticisms, I argue that the framework’s adaptability and openness to methodological advancements enable it to maintain relevance for contemporary social inquiry. The concept of duality is developed between the digital realm’s structures and systems and individual actions to theorize empirical interactions between technological structures and human agency. These interactions have reshaped many contemporary social practices in unprecedented ways. The chapter finishes by explaining the methodological approach adopted throughout this book.

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Structure and Agency: The Digital Realm and Society

  • Alexei Anisin

摘要

This chapter develops the theoretical framework adopted in this book. It argues that many of the noteworthy transformative developments induced by the internet are not causally linked in a deterministic way, but rather, they have concurrently emerged with digitalized information and the evolution of structures that belong to the digital realm. Structuration theory offers a fruitful lens to examine the interplay between macro-level structures and systems (of the digital realm) and individual actions that constitute societal trends. The chapter contrasts the chosen theoretical framework with other theories such as Bourdieu’s theory of practice and Castells’ network society, and it likewise addresses critiques of structuration theory. Despite these criticisms, I argue that the framework’s adaptability and openness to methodological advancements enable it to maintain relevance for contemporary social inquiry. The concept of duality is developed between the digital realm’s structures and systems and individual actions to theorize empirical interactions between technological structures and human agency. These interactions have reshaped many contemporary social practices in unprecedented ways. The chapter finishes by explaining the methodological approach adopted throughout this book.