New Developments on Elias’ Theory: An Integration between the Figurational Theory and the Social Network´s Theory

• In Event: 038 - Theory Section Refereed Roundtable Session and Business Meeting
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: Table 11. Systems and Networks

Abstract

This working paper has two main challenges: a) resume two contemporary theories to b) glimpse new developments from their integration. First, we resume the figurational theory proposed by the German sociologist Norbert Elias trying to highlight how disruptive and innovative his ideas are. Second, we resume the developments of the (social) network studies. Third, we seek to link both theories so they aid each other achieving new devel-opments. We illustrate the last step trying to convert part of Elias’ arguments in Mozart, Zur Soziologie eines Genies in a network. The expected outcome is on the one hand, Eli-as’ figurational theory gain applications with calculus and visualization elements from the network studies. On the other hand, the social network studies gain theoretical robustness with Elias’ theory.

Author

• Hugo Neri, University of Cambridge