Power and powerlessness: Alfred Schutz’s theory of relevance and its possible impact on a sociological analysis of power
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15448/1984-7289.2011.3.10062Keywords:
power, powerlessness, (theory of) relevance, Alfred SchutzAbstract
After demonstrating that there is a certain deficit within the existing sociological reflection on power, this article discusses the possible benefit of consulting Alfred Schutz’s theory of relevance for the study of power relations. Especially, Schutz’s distinction between “intrinsic” and “imposed” relevances is reconsidered at length. The thesis claims that an application of Schutz’s concepts can be of some original use, particularly in exploring the perspective of those subject to power, however this application calls for some theoretical revision. Poder e desempoderamento: A teoria da relevância de Alfred Schutz e seu possível impacto na análise sociológica do poder Após demonstrar que há um certo déficit na reflexão sociológica disponível sobre poder, o artigo discute o possível benefício de consultar a teoria da relevância de Alfred Schutz para o estudo de relações de poder. Em especial, a distinção de Schutz entre relevância “intrínseca” e “imposta” é reconsiderada detidamente. A tese sustenta que uma adoção dos conceitos de Schutz podem ser originais, particularmente ao explorer a perspectiva daqueles sujeitos de poder, entretanto, esta aplicação exige alguma revisão teórica.Downloads
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Published
2011-11-18
How to Cite
Goettlich, A. (2011). Power and powerlessness: Alfred Schutz’s theory of relevance and its possible impact on a sociological analysis of power. Civitas: Journal of Social Sciences, 11(3), 491–508. https://doi.org/10.15448/1984-7289.2011.3.10062
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