- Talcott Parsons observes the variability in patterns of actions of individuals in different circumstances.
- He derived this perspective from Max Weber’s concept of “ideal type” which was later completely organized by him. Talcott Parsons Pattern Variables
- Parson gave the AGIL paradigm as part of his larger action theory.
- In his book named ‘The Structure of Social Action’, Parson stated the Social System in detail along with the AGIL aiming to build a combined map of all action systems, and ultimately “living systems.”
- According to the parson, since the role is an elementary unit of the social system and depends on role expectations of the alter, an actor surfaces the problem of selection between motivational and value coordination.
- Though such a problem seems dichotomous, happens in ranges.
Five types of Talcott Parsons Pattern Variables of Parson representing extremes of choices with the actor are as follows:
Self Orientation versus Collective Orientation.
- The moral standard of this pattern variable rises from the point that the actor has to choose between his or her satisfaction and its deferment for the good of a larger number of people, a collectivity.
- In this, several forms of selflessness and self-sacrifice are involved.
- The problem of this pattern variable has always been present in human life from the primitive method of economy and society to modern civilization. Talcott Parsons Pattern Variables
Ascription versus Achievement.
- In this pattern variable, the actor’s dilemma is based on whether or not the performer defines the objects of his or her role either in terms of eminence or performance.
- In India, the role performance governed by the caste system is a very good example of this pattern variable. Talcott Parsons Pattern Variables
- In the caste system, the ranks of persons are determined not based on their achievement or personal skills, or knowledge but based on their birth. Talcott Parsons Pattern Variables
Universalism versus Particularism.
- Universalism versus particularism is a pattern variable that outlines the role condition where the actor’s dilemma is between the intellectual versus the emotional standards evaluation.
- For instance, role performances which go strictly by legal standards and legal authorizations. If one accepts the rule of law regardless of peculiar, kinship, or friendship concerns, then that would be an example of the universalistic mode of role performance.
- On the other hand, if an individual interrupts legal rules only because the person involved is kin or a friend, then particularistic thoughts would be said to be functioning. Talcott Parsons Pattern Variables
Specificity versus Diffuseness.
- This pattern variable concerns the scope of the object of role performance.
- Some examples of such role relationships are friendship, the marital relationship between husband and wife, etc.
Affectivity versus affective neutrality.
- This type of pattern variable takes into account the dilemma of role performance where assessment is involved concerning a condition.
- This pattern variable poses a tough choice in most roles that we are expected to perform in society.
- For instance, the mother-child relationship involves a high degree of affective orientation, but discipline is also mandatory.
Parson’s viewpoint.
- As per Parson, pattern variables not only describe the nature of role communication and role prospects in the social system but deliver the complete direction in which most members of a social system select their roles.
- It provides us with an indication of the nature of the social system.
