1. STRUCTURATION THEORY
The Positivist Structuralist –Interactionism juxtaposition is
characterised by...
1. Giddens claims that this juxtaposition is dead because most sociologists apply both theories
and methods. Consequently there is a duality of structure (they are simply two sides of the
same coin – structure and action are not separate) this is because...
For example
a) Language
b) Anti school subcultures – eg Willis
c) Transgressive gender identities
Consequently, Structure does not
exist without Action
2. Agency reproduces structure because of the
existence of:
a. RULES
b. RESOURCES
Eg the existence of social, educational, economic and cultural capital affects parentocracy and
reproduces social class inequalities. This almost makes Giddens like a Neo-Marxist lite’?) because...

2. For Giddens,
structural
change
happens
because people
are
knowledgeable
about the social
world and have
their own
motivations
and meanings
This is because the GLOBALISED LATE MODERN society we now life in has
helped people to become more REFLEXIVE, enabling them to change their e.g.
Giddens theories of family relationships (plastic sexuality) – in other words
patriarchy is merely a resource some people draw on but does not have to be
reproduced, eg the new man, ladettes
So, for Giddens human behaviour is not DETERMINED as the Positivist-
structuralists argue, rather it is a product of RELATIVE CHOICE AND FREEDOM
Criticisms of Giddens focus on his OPTIMISM, eg his opinion that we can move from an exclusive to an
inclusive (communitarian) society.
1. Can individuals really change structure (Archer)?
2. Do individuals really have full control of all the
structural resources? (Archer)
3. Can you claim patriarchy or capitalism is just a
resource?
4. Habermas claims
that unconscious action does
support structure but can be changed
through direct political action – eg
slut walk
5. Structuration theory is not really a theory of change but just a description
of a version of reality (Craib)
6. But did heavily influence New Labour policies: Renew civil society –
make citizens active – aware not just of their rights but also of their duties and responsibilities

3. eg policies proposing the renewal of civil (communitarian) society through policy (citizenship,
people’s charters)