Real and Virtual Problems. ''UFO abduction experiences'' as a test case for (problem-oriented) sociology

Journal/Book: Berl J Soziol. 1998; 8: Postfach 300 551, D-51334 Leverkusen 3, Germany. Leske Verlag Budrich GmbH. 223.

Abstract: This essay suggests an analytic differentiation of public discourse in real and virtual problems and uses a career model of social problems, in which theoretical assumptions from both the objectivistic and the constructivistic sociology of social problems are integrated. The structural basis of social problems in this model are ''consensual conditions'', which are determined by the fact that they are also considered real by actors who do not agree with the interpretation as social problem. In contrast, we identify problem perception without these consensual conditions. The quality of such ''virtual problems'' is demonstrated by the example of ''UFO abduction experiences''. The essay ends with a discussion of the consequences of this new category for scientific analysis and sociopolitical valuation of public problem perception.

Note: Review Schetsche M, Univ Bremen, Inst Empir & Angew Soziol Empas, D-2800 Bremen 33, GERMANY

Keyword(s): SOCIAL-PROBLEMS; CLAIMS-MAKING; CONSTRUCTION; MEDIA; MOVEMENTS; SATANISM; MODEL

Zurück | Weiter