Structural ritualization theory
 | This article provides insufficient context for those unfamiliar with the subject. (October 2018) |
Structural ritualization theory, a concept related to the fields of
Ritualized symbolic practices
With the theory, ritualized symbolic practices (RSPs) are socially standardized actions that are
Structural reproduction
Four factors play an essential role in structural reproduction involving RSPs. They include repetitiveness, salience, homologousness, and resources. Repetitiveness entails the frequency with which an RSP is performed. Salience involves the degree to which an RSP is perceived to be central to an act, action sequence, or bundle of interrelated acts. Homologousness implies a similarity among different RSPs. Resources are materials needed to engage in RSPs which are available to actors. The greater the availability of resources, the more likely an actor will engage in an RSP.
Rank
With the theory, rank is important. Rank involves the standing of an RSP in terms of its dominance. A RSP has a high rank, and is likely to be repeated, if repetitiveness, salience, homologousness, and resources are all present. Empirical investigations have been carried out providing tests of the theory. They focus on:
1. Deritualization
2. Ritualized Practices in Organizations and Communities
3. Reproduction of Ritualized Behaviors within Groups
4. Strategic Ritualization and Power
5. Collective Ritual Events
6.
References
- Knottnerus, J. David. 1997. "The Theory of Structural Ritualization." pp. 257–279 in
Advances in Group Processes, Volume 14, edited by Barry Markovsky, Michael J. Lovaglia and Lisa Troyer. Greenwich, CT: JAI Press.