Abstract

MILLAN, René. Complex Society: ¿How Does it Integrate?. Desacatos [online]. 2008, n.28, pp.69-88. ISSN 2448-5144.

The tension between integration and differentiation has been a classic concern of both Sociology and Political Systemic Analysis.Along those lines and under the guidance of Luhmann's Social Systems Theory, this paper analyses the way in which one can formulate the link between integration and differentiation regarding social complexity. It concludes that the idea of a fully coherent and integrated order under a single functional principle cannot be sustained.The unity between social complexity and differentiation determines a more flexible, segmented, fragmented, and less centrally guided integration.

Keywords : complex society; functional differentiation; integration; contingency; selection.

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