New book with ICHS: The eternal return. Reproduction and change in complex activity systems.
Posted by iscarde on November 9, 2008
W.-M. Roth/Y.-J. Lee/L. Boyer, The eternal return. Reproduction and change in complex activity systems. ICHS, Vol. 26, Berlin: Lehmanns Media 2008. 362 pp.
Abstract
Cultural-historical activity theory frequently is used as a framework for studying static situations statically. In this book, the authors implement Lev Vygotsky’s call for doing unit rather than element analysis by studying activity dynamically, across different spatial and temporal scales. The eternal return, that is, the continual reproduction of change while reproducing the system, is taken as the central metaphor for a system that produces self-movement. A case study is provided to explain the approach. Most importantly, the authors implement Vygotsky’s call for theorizing affect and emotion at the very heart of the activity system, showing how the eternal return allows us to understand the change of worker involvement and identification with the goals of their workplace.
