GIDDENS AND HABERMAS: CONTRIBUTIONS TO A SOCIOLOGICAL THEORY OF SYNTHESIS

Abstract

This theoretical and bibliographical article aims to analyze and discuss two of the most relevant theories in contemporary times with regard to the relationship between action and structure in sociology. On the one hand, we will confront Jürgen Habermas' theory of communicative action with the concepts of synthesis and reflexivity, as elaborated by the British sociologist Anthony Giddens. In the case of the latter author, we will emphasize his reflections pertinent to the work The consequences of modernity (Giddens, 1992). We will also bring to the debate, in the alternative, the contributions of Ulrich Beck and his considerations about the risk society. As a partial conclusion, we understand that the synthesis between structural constraints and the actions of individuals can be developed through reflexivity, that is, a greater awareness of social actors about themselves and the circumstances in which they are inserted.