Modernity, Globalization, and Social Realism: Anthony Giddens’ Perspective on Social Transformation

Abstract

The social realism approach proposed by Anthony Giddens offers deep insight into the dynamics of the relationship between agents (individuals or groups) and social structures in the process of social change. In contrast to social theory that considers social structures as static entities that only affect agents, Giddens, through structuration theory, emphasizes the existence of dynamic interactions in which agents and structures shape and limit each other. In his view, agents are not passive entities subject to existing rules and norms, but rather have reflective capacity and the ability to change structures through deliberate action. Giddens' duality of structure shows that social structures are formed, maintained, and changed through repeated social practices, making social reality a process that is continuously constructed by the interaction between agents and structures. This approach is relevant in understanding the complexity of contemporary social change, where phenomena such as globalization, political change, and cultural shifts require a more flexible and dynamic analysis. Giddens' theory allows us to see how agents in various fields—political, economic, or cultural—use their capacity to adapt, respond, and influence existing structures, creating ongoing dynamics of change. This approach also opens up space for the study of the role of individuals and groups in shaping public policy, directing social trends, and managing social conflict. Thus, Giddens' social realism theory plays an important role in understanding social change holistically, especially in the modern era which is characterized by high interconnection and uncertainty.