American Pragmatism and the Reclamation of Reflective Cognition

• In Event: 20207 - Sociological Theory. Contemporary Developments of Classic Themes.

Abstract

The relevance of reflective cognition has re-emerged in sociological theory and research, in no small part due to the pragmatist revival. However, sociologists engaging with pragmatism focus almost exclusively on Dewey’s account of creative and imaginative problem-solving, omitting or underappreciating many pragmatist insights regarding reflective cognition. In this paper I develop four neglected pragmatist arguments regarding reflective cognition, which I refer to as the phases, habits, vices, and differentiation of reflection. This provides a fuller account of reflection that is more developmental, multilayered, and occasionally fatalistic than is currently recognized in sociology. I then demonstrate the relevance of these ideas for three areas of contemporary sociological theorizing: dual-process theory; toolkit theory; and the hybrid habitus.

Author

• Gordon Brett, The University of Hong Kong