Release | The matrix reloaded. A revised framework for the inference of the four basic forms of social differentiation

Abstract: This paper revisits and refines Niklas Luhmann’s framework for understanding social differentiation, addressing unresolved ambiguities in his original theory. Luhmann’s approach, which initially identified three core forms of social differentiation—segmentation, stratification, and functional differentiation—expanded to include a fourth form, centralization. By critically examining the theoretical underpinnings and limitations of Luhmann’s distinctions, this study shows […]

CFP | EURAM 2025 in Florence | T12_04 Management History, Theory, and Philosophy

We invite you to submit your research to our track at the 25th European Academy of Management Anniversary Conference (EURAM 2025) in Florence, Italy! Date: 22-25 June 2025 Venue: University of Florence Track: T12_04 – Management History, Theory, and Philosophy Proponents: Short description: The track “Management History, Theory, and Philosophy” addresses the historical development of […]

Release | Social systems theory and family business: A perspective article

Abstract: This perspective article highlights the significance of systems-theoretical approaches within family business research. Extant systems-theoretical literature in the field of family business research is reviewed to outline potential research gaps and avenues. The article highlights the fundamental differences between organisational decision communication and intimate family communication. At the same time, it shows that both […]

Preprint | What is in organisation? Contents of a self-contained container

The preprint of my manuscript “What is in organisation? Contents of a self-contained container” is available for download on Qeios or here on the present site. Recommended citation: Roth S. (2024). What Is in Organisation? Contents of a Self-Contained Container, Qeios, DOI: 10.32388/I9IMHM.

Online Brainstorming | Guiding distinctions of social science

What dichotomies, dualisms, and distinctions have shaped our fields? Launched by the Next Society Institute, the International Social Theory Consortium, and the Luhmann Conference community, this brainstorming is supported by the European Sociological Association and linked to two dedicated special issues: There is also a related call for abstracts to the Luhmann Conference 2024 in […]

Release | Special Issue | Scientific communication. Observed with social systems theory

Special Luhmann Conference 2022 Issue of Systemic Practice and Action Research (Vol. 37 No. 3) on Scientific communication. Observed with social systems theory Edited by Steffen Roth, Kresimir Zazar, Lars Clausen, and Tilia Stingl de Vasconcelos Guedes Introduction Steffen Roth, Kresimir Zazar, Tilia Stingl de Vasconcelos Guedes, and Lars Clausen: Scientific communication observed with social […]

CFA | Special Issue | Guiding distinctions of social theory. Analogue guidelines or digital transformers?

Call for abstracts and papers Special issue of Current Sociology (Current Sociology Monograph series) Guiding distinctions of social theory. Analogue guidelines or digital transformers? Proponents Click here to download this CFA as PDF. Theme The concept of “guiding distinctions” refers to distinctions – such as economy/society, bourgeoisie/proletariat, community/society, nature/culture, system/environment, structure/agency, north/south, black/white, male/female, or, most recently, analogue/digital […]

CFP | Special Issue | Guiding distinctions of management and organisation research

Call for PapersGuiding distinctions of management and organisation research Guest Editors Steffen Roth1,2, Lars Clausen3,2*, Margit Neisig4,2, Augusto Sales5,2 1Excelia Business School La Rochelle, France, 2Kazimieras Simonavičius University, Lithuania3UCL University College, Denmark4Roskilde University, Denmark5Brazilian School of Public and Business Administration, Brazil *Corresponding co-guest editor Click here to download this CFP as PDF. Luhmann Conference 2024 & […]

CFP | Luhmann Conference 2024 | Guiding distinctions. Observed with social systems theory

Call for papers to the Luhmann Conference 2024 Topic: Guiding distinctions. Observed with social systems theory Venue: Inter-University Centre (IUC), Dubrovnik, CroatiaAddress: Don Frana Bulicá 4, 20000 Dubrovnik, Croatia Submission deadline (abstracts): 15 June 2024 Conference dates: 10-13 September 2024Pre-conference dinner: 09 September 2024Early Career Program: 09 September 2024 To download this Call for Papers, please click here. […]