The Institutional Imperative: The Interface of Institutions and Networks

Zijderveld, Anton

ISBN 10: 9053564322 / ISBN 13: 9789053564325

Published by Amsterdam University Press, 2000

About this Item

Most items will be dispatched the same or the next working day. An apparently unread copy in perfect condition. Dust cover is intact with no nicks or tears. Spine has no signs of creasing. Pages are clean and not marred by notes or folds of any kind. Seller Inventory # wbs8269197769

Bibliographic Details

Title: The Institutional Imperative: The Interface ...

Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

Publication Date: 2000

Binding: Soft cover

Condition: Like New

About this title

Synopsis:

Even though we, as moderns or post-moderns, think we can be free, original and authentic, our actions, thoughts, and emotions are cast in patterns which we share with other individuals, which we did not invent, and which we pass on to the next generation. After we die, people will continue to act, think, and feel within the context of institutions like marriage, family, church, school, university, voluntary associations, et cetera. All these institutions together are what we mean by culture. This book argues that human beings cannot exist, cannot even develop their individuality, freedom, and creativity, without institutions. Under the impact of globalization, ICT, and flexibilization, however, the character of institutions has changed. Pre-modern 'thick' institutions have developed into modern, or perhaps post-modern, 'thin' institutions, which in many ways resemble networks. This book is not a defense of traditional conservatism, nor does it embrace a facile brand of post-modernism. It is instead a painstaking search for a responsible middle road.