Chinese Journal of Sociology ›› 2018, Vol. 38 ›› Issue (4): 180-211.

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Social Constitution of Recognition

CHENG Tsuo   

  1. School of Sociology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
  • Online:2018-07-20 Published:2018-07-20

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Abstract:

Axel Honneth's theory of recognition plays a significant role in today's social theories. However, while theorizing the concept of recognition, Honneth neglects the category of social interaction as an important theoretical link. Due to this deficiency, the concept of recognition lacks a clear definition and as social theory it cannot be easily applied to sociological studies. This paper attempts to gain a better understanding of recognition theory by examining the origin of social interaction. It is suggested here that the concept of recognition can be sociologically defined as a reciprocally supportive interaction based on similar or commonly acceptable ideas and behaviors. Under this definition, Honneth's three forms of recognition are to be reformulated accordingly. Firstly, there is only one form of recognition defined as a reciprocally supportive social interaction, however, in different social spheres there are corresponding generalized symbolic mediums of social interaction such as love, law and social esteem, as well as money, power and religious belief etc. to generate possibility of recognition. Secondly, contempt (Mißachtung) is not an opposite form of recognition but a mean of anti-mediums that harms recognition. Thirdly, recognition can also be distorted by problematic mis-recognition. With the sociological reformulation, recognition theory might be able to provide an appropriate and distinct perspective for sociology.

Key words: Axel Honneth, social interaction, generalized symbolic medium of social interaction, recognition