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European Journal of Social Theory
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Boundary-Thinking in Theories of the Present

The Virtuality of Reflexive Modernization

Rob Shields

UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Theories of the present have converged on changes in spatialization or the spatial order of societies. This article discusses the focus on borders and boundaries in programmatic statements on reflexive modernity or remodernization (RM) by Latour and Beck. It is insufficient to say that boundary-marking and border-making become simply more fraught or obvious. There is an historicity and dynamic quality which are central to these analyses which are best understood in terms of the intangible aspects, or virtuality, of borders and boundaries. A dynamic, four-part ontology is advanced to elucidate the functioning of borders as interfaces and liminal zones with their own internal semiotics and emergent meanings and effects. This is the basis of a critique of RM. Further, a more diverse set of methods than might be supposed is required to research boundary phenomena, which social sciences are ill-equipped to undertake.

Key Words: border • interface • reflexive modernization • remodernization • spatialization • Ulrich Beck

European Journal of Social Theory, Vol. 9, No. 2, 223-237 (2006)
DOI: 10.1177/1368431006063342
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R. L.M. Lee
In search of second modernity: reinterpreting reflexive modernization in the context of multiple modernities
Social Science Information, March 1, 2008; 47(1): 55 - 69.
[Abstract] [PDF]