Actor-Network Theory

Seminar Paper , 2007 , 16 Pages , Grade: 2,3

Communications - Theories, Models, Terms and Definitions

In these days nearly everybody knows different kinds of networks. There are networks all around us. They accompany us at home, at work, on travelling or in our free time. Almost none network is separted and stands for it´s own, even insulated monks are influenced by the outside world.
The whole world is subdivided in networks which are more or less complex. They are all connected in different ways so that every network overlaps another network. Bruno Latour hits the bull´s eye with the following statement: “With the new popularization of the word network, it now means transport without deformation and an instantaneous, unaffected access to every piece of information.” (Latour 1999, p.15).
This term paper concerns with the Actor-Network Theory, shortly called ANT. ANT sometimes specified as sociology of translation is primarily connected with the work of representatives like Bruno Latour, Michael Callon and John Law. The essential characteristic of ANT is the equitable analysis of human and nonhuman actors. They will be esteemed as equal actors in networks which want to achieve a common purpose.
The opening chapter of this term paper will give you a rough historical overlook of ANT. Before the main ideas of ANT will disclose, the relevant specifics about ANT will be presented which are also the premises of ANT. Then detailed information about several key concepts of ANT will be added. In the end the critical points and a short conclusion of ANT will conclude this work.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• Introduction
• ANT in Context
• Specifics about ANT
  • Combined socio-technical system
  • Actors
  • Vocabulary
  • Open-ended Character
• Main ideas of ANT
  • Actor Network
  • Several Models of ANT
  • Complexity of ANT
  • Background/Foreground
  • Flexibility
  • Information infrastructure
  • Bottom-up concept
• Key concept of ANT
  • Inscription
  • Translation
  • Irreversibility
  • Black Boxing
• Criticism and Conclusion of ANT

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte

This term paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Actor-Network Theory (ANT), a theoretical framework that analyzes the interplay between human and non-human actors in networks. It explores the key concepts, main ideas, and criticisms of ANT, highlighting its significance in understanding the complex relationships between technology, society, and organizational communication.

• The heterogeneous nature of actors in networks
• The combined socio-technical system
• The open-ended character of networks
• The role of inscription, translation, and irreversibility in network formation
• The critical perspectives on ANT and its limitations

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel

The introduction provides a brief overview of the concept of networks and their pervasiveness in contemporary society. It introduces Actor-Network Theory (ANT) as a framework for analyzing the interactions between human and non-human actors in networks. The chapter also outlines the structure of the term paper, highlighting the key sections that will be covered.

The second chapter delves into the historical context of ANT, tracing its origins in science and technology studies. It discusses the evolving understanding of the relationship between technology and society, contrasting technology determinism and social constructivism. The chapter concludes by introducing ANT as a framework that rejects the separation of technology and society, viewing them as a combined socio-technical system.

The third chapter focuses on the specific characteristics of ANT. It explores the concept of a combined socio-technical system, emphasizing the interconnectedness of technology and society. The chapter also discusses the heterogeneous nature of actors in ANT, recognizing both human and non-human participants as equal actants. Additionally, it highlights the importance of using an uncommitted vocabulary to describe the interests and conflicts of all actors. Finally, the chapter emphasizes the open-ended character of networks, recognizing their constant evolution and adaptation.

Schlüsselwörter

The key terms and focus themes of the text include Actor-Network Theory (ANT), sociology of translation, human and non-human actors, combined socio-technical system, heterogeneous actors, open-ended character, inscription, translation, irreversibility, black boxing, and critical perspectives on ANT.

• College: Technical University of Ilmenau (Institute of Media and Communication Science)
• Course: Organisational Communication
• Grade: 2,3
• Author: Mario Ziemkendorf (Author)
• Publication Year: 2007
• Pages: 16
• Catalog Number: V114317
• ISBN (eBook): 9783640149254
• ISBN (Book): 9783640149087
• Language: English
• Tags: Actor-Network, Theory, Organisational, Communication, Networks, Bruno Latour