The Transition to Democracy in Eastern Europe: Trends and Paradoxes of Social Rationalization

In: International social science journal: ISSJ, Band 43, S. 331-341

Abstract

An attempt is made to explain the recent profound changes in Eastern Europe by using a differentiated concept of social rationalization. Obstacles in the way of the increasing rationality of collective action are identified, along with tensions inherent in the changing relationships both between the rationality of actors & structures & between substantial & instrumental rationality. Also considered are the time dimension of change & relationships between knowledge & practical action. It is concluded that the current rationalization of Eastern European societies represents an adaptation to global social trends, although intense tensions & conflicts make deviations from patterns of rationality quite possible. 10 References. Modified AA