Define: Parsons defines action as “the aspects of behavior which directly concern ‘cultural-level’ systems” (p.178) these result from interactions between four subsystems, he calls the organism, the social system, the cultural system and the analytical system (Parsons, 1977). The theory presses back against the idea that there are absolute truths, even in the hard sciences, and considers all action a function of social interaction and relationship.
Apply: The theory implies that as a community developer, it is important to understand the value of relationship building and the subjective nature of action. For example, a community developer working to advocate for additional heat to a public housing building during an exceptionally cold week, may be able to work with the city to provide the help even if the residents could not afford it. Since social relationships lead to action, if the motive is compelling enough for both interested parties a formal policy or payment could be ignored.
Adapt: When applying for a job, action theory’s relationship to networking becomes evident. Since the right or perfect candidate is as much defined by subjective human relationships as it is objective facts there is a high level of importance to get to know the hiring manager or the organization. Since the action of hiring is a complex social process, a strictly objective process will likely not be used to select the new hire.
Source:
Parsons, T. (1977). Social systems and the evolution of action theory. New York: Free Press
Apply: The theory implies that as a community developer, it is important to understand the value of relationship building and the subjective nature of action. For example, a community developer working to advocate for additional heat to a public housing building during an exceptionally cold week, may be able to work with the city to provide the help even if the residents could not afford it. Since social relationships lead to action, if the motive is compelling enough for both interested parties a formal policy or payment could be ignored.
Adapt: When applying for a job, action theory’s relationship to networking becomes evident. Since the right or perfect candidate is as much defined by subjective human relationships as it is objective facts there is a high level of importance to get to know the hiring manager or the organization. Since the action of hiring is a complex social process, a strictly objective process will likely not be used to select the new hire.
Source:
Parsons, T. (1977). Social systems and the evolution of action theory. New York: Free Press
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