Social group Quote by Peter L. Berger
““Institutionalization occurs whenever there is a reciprocal typification of habitualized actions by types of actors. Put differently, any such typification is an institution.21 What must be stressed is the reciprocity of institutional typifications and the typicality of not only the actions but also the actors in institutions. The typifications of habitualized actions that constitute institutions are always shared ones. They are available to all the members of the particular social group in question, and the institution itself typifies individual actors as well as individual actions.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Social Construction of Reality, 1966
Institutions arise when groups mutually define habitual actions and the actors performing them, making these definitions shared norms.
In simple terms: Institutions are shared definitions of repeated actions and the people doing them.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the mutual shaping of actions and roles.
Themes
society
norms
roles
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
theoretical
academic
When to use this quote
- organizational policy
- legal systems
- cultural rituals
- education curricula
Key Concepts
institutional theory
social construction
Questions to Reflect On
- How do shared habits limit change?
- What role do actors play in redefining institutions?
A Different Perspective
Institutions can become rigid, limiting innovation.
