Power and powerlessness: Alfred Schutz’s theory of relevance and its possible impact on a sociological analysis of power

For refugees, the transition from their home to the host society is especially challenging. In particular, their situation shortly after arrival entails the risk of social exclusion. Based on two case studies, this article reconstructs experiences of exclusion within the integration processes of Cameroonian refugee men and unaccompanied minors in the region of Brandenburg, Germany. What connects the studies are the existential threats of being forced to wait due to having an unclear future and a pattern of being unable to refer to (positive) lived experiences in the local environment. The article approaches these dynamics by applying Alfred Schütz as a helpful analytical heuristic to the findings. The possibilities and pitfalls of the deployed Schützean framework are highlighted considering current methodological developments in the field.

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Power and powerlessness: Alfred Schutz’s theory of relevance and its possible impact on a sociological analysis of power

Abstract: 's theory of relevance and its possible impact on a sociological analysis of power Poder e desempoderamento A teoria da relevância de Alfred Schutz e seu possível impacto na análise sociológica do poder

Cited by 3 publications

References 3 publications

Risk, Motivation and Decision-making in Everyday Life: A Phenomenological Approach

Risk, Motivation and Decision-making in Everyday Life: A Phenomenological Approach

When Human Beings Become Guinea Pigs

Alfred Schütz Revisited: Social Exclusion of Refugees in Brandenburg

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