Kanger, Laur (2017) Mapping ‘the ANT multiple’: a comparative, critical and reflexive analysis. Journal for the Theory of Social Behaviour, 47 (4). pp. 435-462. ISSN 0021-8308

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Abstract

Despite decades of development, Actor-Network Theory (ANT) continues to be characterized by a good deal of ambiguities and internal tensions. This situation has led to a suggestion that instead of one ANT it may be meaningful to speak of ‘the ANT multiple’. Following this line of reasoning, this article aims to create a map of the variety of positions riding under the ANT banner. Based on an in-depth reading of ANT literature, seven different interpretations of ANT are identified and subjected to critical analysis while accommodating for the concerns of ANT proponents about the way ANT has been previously criticized. The results of the analysis serve to increase the reflexivity of both sides of the debate about their underlying assumptions, and provide suggestions how ANT could be employed, developed and criticized more productively in the future.

Item Type:	Article
Keywords:	Actor-Network Theory, comparative analysis, reflexive critique
Schools and Departments:	School of Business, Management and Economics > SPRU - Science Policy Research Unit
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HM Sociology > HM0481 Theory. Method. Relations to other subjects
Depositing User:	Laur Kanger
Date Deposited:	02 Oct 2017 08:34
Last Modified:	02 Jul 2019 15:05
URI:	http://sro.sussex.ac.uk/id/eprint/69561

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