Vol. 54 No. 2 (2026): Published June 30, 2025
DOI https://doi.org/10.18799/26584956/2026/2/2149
Self-organization in sociological theory: conceptualization, evolution of approaches, and research prospects
In contemporary sociological theory, there remains a problem of conceptual uncertainty surrounding the notion of self-organization, which complicates its empirical study. To overcome this uncertainty, it is necessary to reconsider the genealogy of self-organization and the evolution of approaches to studying it within sociology, as well as to identify the limits of their applicability. This study also addresses the problem of operationalizing self-organization, which is linked to the multilevel nature of this phenomenon and the difficulties of moving from micro- to macro-analysis. Aim. To describe the conceptual foundations of the sociological analysis of self-organization and to identify promising directions for its investigation. Methods. Historiographical analysis to trace the evolution of ideas and a comparative method to compare theoretical approaches. Results. Four main approaches to studying self-organization in contemporary sociology are identified, along with the associated methodological difficulties. The author concludes that self-organization represents a multidimensional phenomenon requiring a combination of different theoretical approaches, and that promising directions for further research include the infrastructural mediation of self-organization, its domestication under the effect of power, and the specific features of self-organizing processes in boundary situations.
For citation: Guseinova A.L. Self-organization in sociological theory: conceptualization, evolution of approaches, and research prospects. Journal of Wellbeing Technologies, 2026, vol. 54, no. 2, pp. 140–152. https://doi.org/10.18799/26584956/2026/2/2149
Keywords:
self-organization, social order, sociological theory, collective action, communicative action, social networks, practices, digital platforms, domestication of self-organization, boundary situations
References:
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