Continual Permutations of Action

This insightful work, Continual Permutations of Action, examines the relationship between human action and social structure, emphasizing the complexity of social life.

First published in 1993, Continual Permutations of Action explores the intersection of pragmatism and symbolic interactionism, two perspectives that emphasize human action as central to understanding social phenomena. Richard Bernstein noted that both frameworks were ahead of their time, offering insights into various aspects of social and psychological behavior. Whether examining the self, emotions, or broader social institutions, these perspectives conceptualize all as forms of human activity, highlighting the inherent complexity of social life.

Anselm Strauss, the author, delves into the theory of action that has guided his research for nearly four decades. He posits that human interaction is fundamental in shaping social structures, laying out nineteen assumptions that clarify Herbert Blumer's premises of symbolic interactionism. This foundational approach serves to deepen our understanding of how human actions influence societal dynamics, making the case that action is not merely a response to external conditions but a driving force in social change.

In Continual Permutations of Action, Strauss aims to keep the complexity of human group life at the forefront of analysis while providing a coherent framework for understanding it. His analytical scheme is grounded in empirical research and observation, rather than abstract logic. Through this work, he invites readers to engage with the intricate interplay of action and structure, making it essential reading for those interested in sociology and the dynamics of human behavior.