The consequentiality of absences in social settings: a sensemaking perspective

Article


Poulis, K. 2024. The consequentiality of absences in social settings: a sensemaking perspective. Sociology. https://doi.org/10.1177/00380385241263810
TypeArticle
TitleThe consequentiality of absences in social settings: a sensemaking perspective
AuthorsPoulis, K.
Abstract

Empirical sociology’s focus on “things” follows an Aristotelian legacy that prioritises discreteness and concrete singularities—that which are perceived to exist. In turn, such convention is predicated on an ontology of being and a natural focus on presence—the ubiquitous assumption that reality is ultimately atomistic and substantial. This metaphysical outlook has produced outstanding scholarly results. However, it also overlooks the significance of an alternative absence, a persistent but undetected “otherness” that can affect social outcomes. The study shows how absences shape actionable imperatives in social settings and identifies requisite mechanisms through which social arrangements are enacted. Thus, it joins the burgeoning sociology of nothing, absence and loss and stresses the enactive consequentiality of what is missing through a sensemaking lens.

Keywordsabsence; change; presence; reproduction; sensemaking
Sustainable Development Goals4 Quality education
Middlesex University ThemeSustainability
PublisherSAGE Publications
JournalSociology
ISSN0038-0385
Electronic1469-8684
Publication dates
Print02 Aug 2024
Publication process dates
Accepted04 Jun 2024
Deposited04 Jun 2024
Output statusIn press
Publisher's version
License
File Access Level
Open
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1177/00380385241263810
Web of Science identifierWOS:001282499200001
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