What ispractice theory in sociology – What is practice theory in sociology? Brace yourself, because it’s less about stuffy lectures and more about the hilarious, often chaotic, dance between people and the structures they both create and are shaped by. Think of it as sociology’s answer to a really messy game of Jenga – where the blocks are social norms, the players are individuals, and the whole thing could collapse at any second (but probably won’t, because society is surprisingly resilient… mostly).

Practice theory dives deep into the everyday actions that build our social world. Forget grand narratives; it’s all about the nitty-gritty of how we brush our teeth, navigate office politics, or even choose our Instagram filters. It argues that social structures aren’t some monolithic force, but rather emerge from repeated actions and interactions. It’s a fascinating exploration of how individual agency and social structures are intertwined in a constant, dynamic struggle for dominance (or at least a comfortable compromise).

Defining Practice Theory in Sociology

Practice theory offers a vibrant alternative to traditional sociological perspectives, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between individual agency and social structures. It moves beyond the rigid dichotomy of structure versus agency, viewing them not as opposing forces, but as mutually constitutive elements shaping social life. This approach illuminates how individuals, through their everyday actions and interactions, both reproduce and transform social structures.

Core Tenets of Practice Theory

Practice theory’s core tenets revolve around the concept of “practice” itself – understood not simply as individual behavior, but as a complex interplay of bodily skills, understanding, and social contexts. Central to this is the idea that social structures are not merely external constraints, but are actively produced and reproduced through the routines and habits of individuals. This process is not deterministic; individuals possess agency and can creatively adapt, modify, and even challenge existing structures through their practices.

Another key element is the emphasis on the situated nature of action; practices are not performed in a vacuum, but are deeply embedded within specific social and material contexts. Finally, practice theory highlights the importance of learning and the transmission of knowledge and skills across generations. These practices are often tacit, embodied, and difficult to articulate explicitly.

Differences Between Practice Theory and Other Sociological Perspectives

Unlike structuralism, which prioritizes the overarching influence of social structures on individual behavior, practice theory acknowledges the agency of individuals within those structures. Structuralism often depicts individuals as passive recipients of social forces, while practice theory emphasizes their active role in shaping and reshaping those same forces. Compared to symbolic interactionism, which focuses on micro-level interactions and the construction of meaning through symbols, practice theory takes a broader perspective, incorporating both micro and macro levels of analysis.

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Returning to practice theory, this highlights how seemingly simple activities contribute to the complex tapestry of social life.

While symbolic interactionism delves deeply into the meaning-making processes of individuals, practice theory also examines how these meanings are embedded within and influenced by larger social structures and material conditions. Practice theory, therefore, provides a more holistic and nuanced understanding of the relationship between individual action and social structure than either structuralism or symbolic interactionism alone.

Examples of Practice Theory in Sociological Research

Practice theory finds application across a wide range of sociological research areas. For instance, studies of workplace practices can reveal how seemingly mundane routines and interactions contribute to the reproduction of inequalities. Researchers might observe how informal workplace norms and power dynamics influence career progression, highlighting the subtle ways in which practices reinforce existing social hierarchies. Similarly, research on consumption practices can illuminate how individual choices are shaped by cultural norms, material conditions, and social networks.

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A study examining the adoption of new technologies might analyze how individuals learn and adapt to these technologies, demonstrating how practices are learned, adapted, and ultimately shape technological development itself. Studies of political participation can explore how individuals’ engagement in political action is influenced by their social networks, cultural background, and access to resources.

Comparing Interpretations of Practice Theory

Key Concepts in Practice Theory

Practice theory, a vibrant area within sociology, moves beyond the traditional dichotomy of structure and agency, offering a nuanced understanding of how individuals shape and are shaped by their social world. It emphasizes the dynamic interplay between individual actions and broader social forces, illuminating the processes through which social structures are both reproduced and transformed. This section delves into the core concepts that underpin this perspective.

The Concept of “Practice”

Practice, at the heart of practice theory, refers to the routinized, embodied actions individuals perform in their daily lives. These are not simply individual acts but are deeply embedded within social contexts and imbued with meaning. Practices are not isolated events; they are interwoven, forming chains of actions that constitute social life. Consider, for example, the seemingly mundane practice of having coffee in the morning.

This involves a complex interplay of individual choices (type of coffee, brewing method), social norms (time of consumption, location), and material resources (coffee maker, beans). The practice is not merely the act of drinking coffee but the entire constellation of actions, meanings, and relations involved. This holistic view distinguishes practice theory from approaches that isolate individual actions or solely focus on macro-level structures.

The Role of Habitus in Shaping Social Practices

Habitus, a central concept borrowed from the work of Pierre Bourdieu, refers to the deeply ingrained dispositions, habits, and tastes that individuals acquire through their socialization. It is a system of embodied knowledge, shaping how individuals perceive, understand, and act within the world. Habitus is not deterministic; it provides a set of predispositions, influencing, but not dictating, individual actions.

For instance, an individual socialized within a high-status family might possess a habitus that inclines them towards certain cultural practices (e.g., attending classical music concerts, collecting art), while someone from a working-class background might have a different habitus leading them towards different practices (e.g., enjoying popular music, engaging in team sports). Habitus, therefore, acts as a bridge between individual agency and social structure, explaining how individuals reproduce and, sometimes, challenge existing social patterns.

The Significance of Power Relations in the Constitution of Practices

Power relations are inextricably woven into the fabric of social practices. Practices are not neutral; they are often shaped by power dynamics that advantage some groups while disadvantaging others. Consider, for example, the practice of job interviews. The power imbalance between the interviewer and interviewee significantly influences the interaction, shaping the language used, the body language displayed, and ultimately, the outcome.

Similarly, the seemingly simple practice of choosing a restaurant for dinner can reflect broader power relations based on class, race, or gender, with certain types of establishments being more accessible or desirable to particular groups. Understanding the role of power in shaping practices is crucial to analyzing social inequality and challenging unjust systems.

Social Structures and Practices: A Dynamic Interplay

Social structures, such as institutions, norms, and laws, both constrain and enable social practices. These structures provide the framework within which practices unfold, offering opportunities and limitations to individual action. Simultaneously, practices contribute to the reproduction and transformation of social structures. For example, the practice of marriage is shaped by legal frameworks and cultural norms (structure), but the ways in which individuals negotiate marriage and family life (practice) can influence these very frameworks and norms over time.

The ongoing interaction between practices and structures highlights the dynamic and fluid nature of social life. A further example is the practice of online communication, which has fundamentally altered the structure of social interaction and the formation of communities, showcasing the capacity of practices to reshape social structures.

The Role of Agency and Structure: What Ispractice Theory In Sociology

Practice theory offers a nuanced perspective on the enduring sociological debate surrounding agency and structure, moving beyond simplistic either/or frameworks. It acknowledges the reciprocal relationship between individual actions (agency) and the broader social context shaping those actions (structure). Instead of viewing these as opposing forces, practice theory emphasizes their interwoven and mutually constitutive nature.Practice theory avoids the trap of determinism, recognizing that individuals are not simply puppets of societal forces.

Simultaneously, it acknowledges that individual actions are not performed in a vacuum; they are always situated within and shaped by pre-existing social structures, norms, and resources. This dynamic interplay is central to understanding how societies reproduce and change.

Agency and Structure: A Comparative Analysis

Agency refers to the capacity of individuals to act independently and make choices. It encompasses the ability to shape one’s own life course, influence others, and resist societal pressures. Structure, conversely, refers to the enduring patterns of social relations, institutions, and norms that constrain and enable individual action. These structures can be formal (e.g., laws, regulations) or informal (e.g., cultural norms, social expectations).

Practice theory views agency and structure not as binary opposites but as mutually constitutive elements in a continuous feedback loop. Agency is exercised within the confines of structure, and the repeated exercise of agency contributes to the reproduction or transformation of those structures.

Practice Theory’s Resolution of the Agency-Structure Debate

Instead of choosing sides in the agency-structure debate, practice theory offers a more holistic perspective. It suggests that social reality is created and recreated through the ongoing interaction between individuals and social structures. This means that individuals are both shaped by and shape the social world. Practices, which are routinized ways of acting, become the focal point. These practices are not simply individual actions, nor are they solely the product of societal forces.

Rather, they are the sites where agency and structure meet and mutually constitute one another. The focus shifts from the individual or the structure in isolation to the dynamic interplay between them within the context of practices.

Individual Actions and the Reproduction/Transformation of Social Structures

Individual actions, while seemingly insignificant in isolation, cumulatively contribute to the reproduction and transformation of social structures. Repeated performance of practices reinforces existing structures, creating stability and predictability. For example, the consistent adherence to traffic laws by individuals reinforces the structure of road systems and traffic regulations. Conversely, deviations from established practices, even small ones, can contribute to gradual social change.

Consider the collective actions of civil rights activists, who, through repeated acts of resistance and non-violent protest, challenged and ultimately transformed racial segregation. Their individual actions, although risky, collectively challenged and altered established power structures.

A Hypothetical Scenario: The Interplay of Agency and Structure in Education

Imagine a high school student from a low-income background (structure: socioeconomic disadvantage) who aspires to attend a prestigious university (agency: ambition). The student’s agency is constrained by limited access to resources such as quality tutoring, advanced courses, and college application guidance. However, through perseverance and the utilization of available resources (e.g., free online courses, community college programs), the student manages to excel academically and gain admission to their desired university.

Practice theory in sociology emphasizes the interplay between individual agency and social structures. Understanding how individuals negotiate their circumstances within these structures is crucial; for instance, analyzing the lived experiences of those utilizing government assistance programs like Food Stamps reveals how social structures shape individual actions and vice-versa, providing valuable insights into the practical application of practice theory.

This reciprocal relationship between structure and agency is central to the theoretical framework.

This success story illustrates how agency can be exercised within and against structural constraints. The student’s actions, while individual, contribute to the gradual transformation of the education system by demonstrating the potential of students from disadvantaged backgrounds, thereby potentially influencing policy changes aimed at increasing educational equity.

Methodology and Research Methods in Practice Theory

Practice theory, with its focus on the interplay between individual agency and social structures in shaping social practices, necessitates research methods capable of capturing the dynamism and complexity of everyday life. Unlike approaches that prioritize either individual actions or overarching social forces, practice theory demands a nuanced methodological approach that can illuminate the intricate processes through which practices are enacted, reproduced, and transformed.

Researchers employing a practice theory lens often favor qualitative methods that allow for in-depth exploration of the context and meaning embedded within social practices. These methods prioritize understanding the lived experiences of individuals and the subtle ways in which they navigate the constraints and possibilities presented by their social environment. The emphasis is on uncovering the tacit knowledge, embodied skills, and shared understandings that underpin social practices.

Qualitative Research Methods Suitable for Studying Social Practices

A range of qualitative methods prove particularly well-suited to the study of social practices. These methods allow researchers to access the rich tapestry of human experience and uncover the intricate details of how practices unfold in everyday life. The selection of a specific method often depends on the research question and the nature of the social practice under investigation.

• Ethnography: This immersive approach involves prolonged observation and participation in the social setting where the practice takes place. Researchers become active participants, observing interactions, collecting artifacts, and documenting the nuances of the practice in its natural context. This allows for a deep understanding of the tacit knowledge and embodied skills involved.
• Interviews: Semi-structured or narrative interviews allow researchers to gather detailed accounts of individuals’ experiences and perspectives on the social practice. These interviews can uncover the meanings individuals ascribe to their actions, their motivations, and the challenges they face in enacting the practice. The conversational nature of interviews allows for flexibility and the exploration of unexpected themes.
• Focus Groups: These group discussions provide a platform for exploring shared understandings and differing perspectives on a social practice. The interaction between participants can reveal the dynamics of negotiation and consensus-building within the practice.
• Discourse Analysis: Examining the language used in relation to the practice can illuminate the underlying values, beliefs, and power relations that shape its enactment. This approach can reveal how language contributes to the construction and maintenance of social practices.
• Document Analysis: Analyzing relevant documents, such as policy documents, media representations, or personal diaries, can provide a broader context for understanding the social practice and its evolution over time.

Examples of Ethnography and Interviews in Practice Theory Research

Ethnographic studies might involve a researcher spending months embedded within a workplace to understand the everyday practices of teamwork, observing how tasks are coordinated, communication styles, and the informal rules governing interactions. The rich data collected through observation, field notes, and interviews would then be analyzed to understand the interplay between individual actions and organizational structures in shaping workplace practices.

Similarly, interviews could be conducted with individuals involved in a specific social practice, such as parenting or religious observance. By exploring their experiences, motivations, and challenges, researchers can uncover the diverse ways in which individuals navigate the social expectations and constraints associated with the practice. For example, interviews with parents might reveal the diverse strategies they employ in raising children, highlighting the impact of individual choices within the broader social context of parenting norms and expectations.

Challenges of Applying Practice Theory to Large-Scale Social Phenomena

While practice theory offers valuable insights into the micro-level dynamics of social practices, extending its application to large-scale social phenomena presents significant challenges. The depth and detail required by qualitative methods often makes it difficult to achieve broad generalizability. Furthermore, analyzing the interplay between individual agency and large-scale structures requires sophisticated analytical techniques capable of bridging the micro-macro divide.

Researchers may need to employ mixed-methods approaches, combining qualitative data with quantitative data to gain a more comprehensive understanding. For instance, a study on the impact of social media on political participation might combine ethnographic studies of online political communities with quantitative analysis of social media usage patterns and voting behavior to explore the complex relationship between individual actions and broader social trends.

Applications of Practice Theory in Different Social Contexts

Practice theory, with its focus on the interplay between individual agency and social structures, offers a powerful lens through which to examine a wide array of social phenomena. Its versatility allows for insightful analyses across diverse social contexts, revealing the dynamic processes by which social life is created and reproduced. This section explores several key applications, demonstrating the breadth and depth of practice theory’s power.

Practice Theory in Organizational Studies

Practice theory provides a nuanced understanding of organizational life, moving beyond simplistic models of top-down control or purely individualistic motivations. It highlights how organizational routines, practices, and technologies are not merely tools but actively shape the actions and identities of individuals within the organization. For instance, the seemingly mundane practice of a morning meeting, with its specific rituals and power dynamics, constructs the organizational culture and influences employee behavior.

Practice theory in sociology emphasizes the interplay between individual agency and social structures. Understanding how individuals shape and are shaped by their social worlds is crucial, and this resonates deeply with the ethos of Choose Life Choose Words , which highlights the power of conscious choices in shaping one’s life trajectory. Ultimately, practice theory provides a framework for analyzing how these choices, both individual and collective, contribute to the ongoing construction of social reality.

Similarly, the adoption of new technologies isn’t simply a matter of technical implementation; it involves the negotiation of new practices, the re-shaping of workflows, and the potential for both empowerment and marginalization of employees. Analyzing the interplay of established practices and emergent innovations reveals how organizations adapt and evolve over time, highlighting the ongoing negotiation between structure and agency.

Practice theory in sociology emphasizes the interplay between individual agency and social structures. Understanding how individuals shape and are shaped by their social worlds is crucial, and a prime example of this dynamic can be observed in the rapidly evolving digital landscape; for instance, consider the impact of technological advancements highlighted on the website Techsquiral on social interactions and the formation of new practices.

This illustrates how practice theory helps us analyze the ongoing negotiation between technology and society.

Practice Theory and Social Inequalities

Practice theory illuminates how social inequalities are not merely structural but are actively reproduced through everyday practices. It moves beyond the simple dichotomy of structure versus agency by showing how seemingly individual choices are constrained and enabled by the social structures in which they are embedded. For example, the persistent gender pay gap isn’t solely a result of discriminatory laws or employer biases; it is also perpetuated through subtle yet powerful practices within the workplace.

Practice theory in sociology examines how individuals shape and are shaped by social structures. Understanding the interplay between agency and structure is crucial; for example, consider the narrative construction of death in popular culture, such as the question, “Who Died on Big Bang Theory?”, which is addressed at Who Died on Big Bang Theory?. Returning to practice theory, this illustrates how even seemingly trivial cultural events reflect broader social processes and power dynamics.

These practices might include informal networking patterns that exclude women, gendered expectations around work-life balance, or the evaluation criteria that implicitly favor masculine styles of leadership. By examining these practices, practice theory helps to unpack the mechanisms through which inequalities are reproduced, offering a pathway towards understanding and challenging them. A study of hiring practices in a particular industry, for instance, might reveal how unconscious biases embedded in resume screening and interview techniques contribute to the underrepresentation of minority groups.

Practice Theory and Cultural Change

Cultural change is not a monolithic process driven by grand narratives or singular events. Practice theory emphasizes the gradual, often incremental, shifts in everyday practices that accumulate to produce broader cultural transformations. The spread of a new fashion trend, for example, isn’t simply a matter of imitation; it involves the adoption of new practices of consumption, self-presentation, and social interaction.

These practices, in turn, reshape existing social relationships and power dynamics. Similarly, the evolution of language involves not only the creation of new words and phrases but also the shifting patterns of their use within specific social contexts. Analyzing these micro-level changes in practice provides a rich understanding of how broader cultural shifts unfold. Consider the adoption of social media; the practices surrounding its use—sharing, liking, commenting—have profoundly reshaped patterns of communication, social interaction, and even political mobilization.

Practice Theory and Technology’s Role in Shaping Social Life, What ispractice theory in sociology

The impact of technology on social life is often discussed in terms of technological determinism—the idea that technology dictates social change. Practice theory offers a more nuanced perspective, emphasizing the active role of individuals and groups in shaping how technologies are used and the social meanings they acquire. The introduction of a new communication technology, such as the smartphone, does not automatically lead to specific social outcomes.

Instead, its impact is shaped by how it is integrated into existing practices and how new practices emerge around its use. For instance, the rise of social media platforms has created new forms of social interaction, community building, and political mobilization, but the specific nature of these outcomes is shaped by the practices of users, the design of the platforms themselves, and the broader social context.

The way individuals use smartphones for work, leisure, and social connection is not predetermined by the technology itself, but is rather a product of individual choices, social expectations, and cultural norms.

Critiques and Limitations of Practice Theory

Practice theory, while offering a valuable lens for understanding social action, is not without its critics and limitations. Its emphasis on the interplay of structure and agency, while insightful, can sometimes lead to ambiguities and difficulties in empirical application. Several key areas of critique warrant closer examination to fully appreciate the theory’s scope and potential pitfalls.

A central critique revolves around the potential for a somewhat indeterminate relationship between structure and agency. While practice theory seeks to bridge the structure-agency divide, critics argue that the precise mechanisms through which structures shape practices and practices reshape structures remain insufficiently specified. This lack of clarity can make it challenging to operationalize the theory in empirical research and to develop testable hypotheses.

The inherent complexity of the interaction between individual actions and broader social forces can lead to analyses that are descriptive rather than , leaving the causal relationships somewhat opaque.

Challenges in Operationalization and Measurement

Operationalizing the key concepts of practice theory, such as “competence,” “habitus,” and “field,” presents significant methodological hurdles. These concepts are often richly nuanced and difficult to translate into quantifiable measures suitable for empirical testing. Researchers often rely on qualitative methods, such as ethnography and interviews, which can be time-consuming and prone to subjective interpretations. The lack of standardized measurement tools limits the comparability of studies and hinders the accumulation of robust empirical evidence supporting or challenging specific aspects of the theory.

Practice theory in sociology emphasizes the interplay between individual agency and social structures. Understanding this dynamic requires considering the foundational elements of knowledge, much like understanding the building blocks of life, as explored in the question, “Which Statement Is Part of Cell Theory?” Which Statement Is Part of Cell Theory? Similarly, practice theory examines how individuals actively shape and are shaped by societal norms and expectations, creating a continuous process of reciprocal influence.

This contrasts sharply with some quantitative sociological theories that lend themselves more easily to statistical analysis and large-scale surveys.

Comparison with Other Sociological Theories

Compared to structural functionalism, which emphasizes social order and the functions of social institutions, practice theory offers a more dynamic and agent-centered perspective. However, structural functionalism provides a clearer framework for understanding social stability, while practice theory may struggle to fully account for the persistence of social structures over time. In contrast to symbolic interactionism, which focuses on micro-level interactions and meaning-making, practice theory incorporates a broader consideration of social structures and their influence on individual actions.

Yet, symbolic interactionism offers a more detailed account of the process of meaning-construction, something that practice theory sometimes overlooks in its emphasis on routine and habit.

Areas for Further Development

One area requiring further development is the integration of power dynamics within practice theory. While the concept of “field” implicitly acknowledges power relations, a more explicit and systematic analysis of how power shapes practices and access to resources is needed. This could involve incorporating insights from feminist theory, postcolonial theory, and critical race theory to better understand how inequalities are reproduced and challenged through everyday practices.

Furthermore, exploring the role of technology and digital media in shaping contemporary practices would enrich the theory’s power and relevance in an increasingly digitalized world. A more nuanced understanding of how digital technologies both constrain and enable practices is crucial for advancing the field.

Illustrative Examples of Practice Theory in Action

Practice theory, by focusing on the interplay between individual agency and social structures, offers a powerful lens through which to understand the dynamic nature of social life. Examining concrete examples illuminates how practices are learned, reproduced, and transformed over time, revealing the intricate web of human actions and their social contexts.

Cycling as a Social Practice

Cycling, seemingly a simple activity, embodies numerous elements of practice theory. Consider the practice of recreational cycling in a specific urban context, say, a city with dedicated bike lanes and a vibrant cycling culture. The

• competences* involved include physical skills (balance, gear shifting), knowledge of traffic laws and bike routes, and even a certain style or aesthetic preference in clothing and equipment. The
• materials* are the bicycle itself, its accessories, helmets, and appropriate clothing. The
• understandings* encompass a shared understanding of cycling etiquette, the social acceptability of cycling as a mode of transport and recreation, and even the perceived risks and benefits. The practice is enacted within a
• social context* shaped by urban planning (bike lanes), social norms (respect for cyclists), and commercial interests (bike shops, cycling clubs). This context shapes the practice, reinforcing certain styles and behaviors while potentially marginalizing others. For example, the presence of bike lanes facilitates safer cycling, making it more accessible to a wider range of individuals, while the prevalence of specialized cycling shops supports the development of specialized practices and sub-cultures within the broader practice of recreational cycling.

  Furthermore, the practice is reproduced through informal learning (watching others cycle), formal instruction (cycling classes), and the reinforcement of social norms (positive interactions between cyclists).

The Social Institution of Higher Education

Higher education, as a social institution, can be effectively analyzed through the lens of practice theory. The

• competences* involved include academic skills (reading, writing, critical thinking), professional networking, and the acquisition of specialized knowledge. The
• materials* encompass textbooks, lecture halls, libraries, online learning platforms, and research facilities. The
• understandings* are embodied in the academic disciplines themselves, the norms of academic conduct (e.g., plagiarism), and the values associated with higher education (e.g., intellectual pursuit, personal growth). The
• social context* is multifaceted, including the broader economic and political system, funding models, government policies, and the demands of the labor market. The practice of higher education is enacted through a complex interplay of these elements. For instance, the increasing reliance on online learning platforms reflects a shift in both materials and understandings, altering the practice of education itself.

  Similarly, the pressure to publish research influences the practices of faculty, shaping their teaching and research activities. The institution reproduces itself through admissions processes, curriculum design, and the ongoing socialization of students into the academic community. Students learn the competencies, acquire the necessary materials, and internalize the understandings, thus perpetuating the institution’s practices.

The Evolution of Mobile Phone Use

The practice of using mobile phones has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past few decades. Initially, mobile phones were primarily tools for communication, with limited functionality and high costs. The

• competences* were limited to making and receiving calls. The
• materials* were bulky and expensive devices. The
• understandings* centered on the phone as a status symbol and a tool for urgent communication. Over time, technological advancements (smaller, cheaper devices, increased processing power) changed the
• materials*. The introduction of text messaging, internet access, and apps broadened the
• competences* and
• understandings*, transforming the phone from a communication device into a multifaceted tool for entertainment, social networking, information access, and financial transactions. This evolution was driven by technological innovation, but also by changes in the
• social context*, including increased internet penetration, the rise of social media, and the changing social norms around mobile phone use. The practice itself has adapted, with individuals developing new competences, using new materials, and internalizing new understandings, all within a continuously evolving social context.

FAQ Resource

What’s the difference between habitus and habit?

Habitus is a broader, ingrained system of dispositions, tastes, and beliefs shaping our actions, while habit is a specific, repetitive action. Think of habitus as the underlying software and habit as a specific program running on that software.

Is practice theory only relevant to micro-level interactions?

Nope! While it excels at explaining everyday actions, practice theory can be scaled up to analyze larger social phenomena like institutional practices or cultural change. It’s like zooming in and out on a Google Map – you can see both the individual streets and the whole country.

How does practice theory handle the problem of power?

Power dynamics are central! Practice theory acknowledges that some practices are more valued or powerful than others, and that this shapes both individual actions and the overall social landscape. It’s not a level playing field, but a constantly shifting power struggle disguised as a tea party.