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54 THE ISA HANDBOOK IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIOLOGY

interdependency with governmentality, we can of modern sociology and presented innovative
outline the following conclusions related to ways by which sociological interventions can
the current processes of globalization and the enhance local democratic participation in
prospects for sociology to make a difference various parts of the globe. Given the absence
in the field of international discourses: of structures and institutions capable of guar-
anteeing that the basic human problems and
1 In a glocalized world, the primary function of issues of the global society are addressed
sociology may involve expansion of the discur- through democratic political processes, soci-
sive field of governmentality by offering opportu- ologists should play a role in making admin-
nities for people to develop or access different istrative processes more transparent and
discourses, thereby enhancing their ability to
engage with the processes of globalization and opening up channels for citizen participation
concomitant transformations of organizations, spanning all levels of global society. Both
local communities and everyday life. governance and social movements are under
2 Sociological practice presupposes a sociological the influence of global discourses that must
theory that is not exclusively oriented towards be critically examined for their arguments,
either macro – or micro – level phenomena. their social function and their consequences
Sociological theory has to mediate between with respect to the distribution of influence
these two levels, as even the smallest social unit and resources.
will be an actor on a global scene.
3 Under glocalization, local actors are increasingly
liberated from national bonds and become more
open to international networks and discourses. NOTES
Relations between organizations are subject to
continuous construction and reconstruction.
1 We would like to thank Prof. M. Los, University
Theories of discursive fields and inter-organiza- of Ottawa, for her invaluable help in the preparation
tional networks become of vital importance. of this chapter.
4 The nature of current trends of globalization both 2 John Glass and Jan-Marie Fritz were among the
requires and introduces profound transforma- co-founders of the Clinical Sociological Association in
tions of social relations. Both at micro- and 1978. In 1986 its name was changed to The
macro- level, in theory and practice, we need to Sociological Practice Association (Fritz, 1991).
address issues of innovation, social security and
social integrity.
5 Sociology must combine the empirical study of
social phenomena, and the critical analysis of REFERENCES
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