Dialectical Constructivism in Historical Context: Expertise and the Subject of Late Modernity

Abstract

In this paper, I bring relational theory, particularly the work of Irwin Hoffman, into conversation with the work of several sociologists who have explored subjective experience in late modernity. The work of these sociologists suggests that even what we consider to be our existential condition is inextricable from socio-historical circumstance. The work also suggests why relational theory and practice might, at this historical juncture, feel so compelling and so true to so many of us. An important focus of the sociologists’ work is the role played by expertise in the development of late modern subjectivity. Hoffman's thoughts on analytic authority are brought into relation with complementary and contrasting sociological views on experts and expertise.

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