Publication details
Věk v sociologické teorie: Perspektiva životního běhu
| Title in English | Age in Sociological Theory: The Life Course Perspective |
|---|---|
| Authors | |
| Year of publication | 2007 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Sociální studia |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Field | Sociology, demography |
| Keywords | Life course - institution; Life course - theory; Life course - paradigm; |
| Description | In early 1960s the life course theory has emerged among social sciences in Europe and North America. It creates a special theoretical approach to social reality which has also methodological implications. On the basis of the life course theory individual lives are studied in their whole: from birth to death. Further, life course theory takes into account both macro and micro levels of the social reality, so that the dynamic relationship between the individual and the society can be examined. The individuals then are seen as active and creative agents who are able to shape their lives. The life course perspective is not well known among Czech social scientist so far. The main aim of this article is to introduce the life course theory. Firstly, we describe the genesis of the notion in short. Then we point out that the term life course used to be applied in a variety of meanings in the scientific literature which sometimes makes difficulties by understanding the contents. We have identified three levels of application of the life course term: as a paradigm, an analytical concept and a social institution. These lines of meaning are elaborated with a special focus on their definitions, key notions and methodological consequences. In case of the life-course-institution we discuss its contemporary changes under the conditions of postindustrial societies too. |