Systems theory is, doubtless, a controversial and contentious field of sociological theory-building. Nonetheless or rather because of it, the theory seems to, to a surprisingly great extent, attract critics – may that be critique uttered by social scientists or students. The matter by itself is, of course, not actually surprising as science is based upon the ongoing process of criticizing the work of others. What, indeed, stuns is the quality of most of the critiques – or better: the lack of quality most discussions are characterized by and their willingness to abide by this standard – if that.
In the course of time one happens to grow accustomed to the fanciest critiques. They range from “where is the subject/ actor” to “oh, way too complicated”. The favorite is for sure: no one outside of Bielefeld uses Luhmann. All this stuff is ideally suited to make an earnest observer crack up. And, by the way, it doesn´t really matter if the critique comes from most scientific articles or is uttered in a seminar: the bottom line is always the same. Let´s just take this classic regional thing: one tends to the assertion that the analytical value of a theory doesn´t depend upon its regional use – especially not of the use in or outside of Bielefeld. Obviously, for some obscure reasons, this just doesn´t seem to be right for the users of the regional argument… Incidentally… yes, the coinjoinability of science is the main counterargument. But to be earnest: measured by the publications as to systems theory the theory doesn´t run the risk of vanishing but rather to play, admittedly, a smaller role in today´s sociology which is truly kind of scaring as other theories normally don´t match systems theory´s level of dissolving everyday life categories and re- describe them.
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