The social Theory of Georg Simmel

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Monograph

Identifikator:: 1024612627

URN:: urn:nbn:de:zbw-retromon-166627

Document type:: Monograph

Author:: Spykman, Nicholas J. http://d-nb.info/gnd/124229867

Title:: The social Theory of Georg Simmel

Place of publication:: Chicago

Publisher:: Univ. of Chicago Press.

Year of publication:: 1925

Scope:: XXIX, 297 S

Digitisation:: 2022

Collection:: Economics Books

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134 THE SOCIAL THEORY OF GEORG SIMMEL third modifies it entirely, but also by the fact that a fur- ther extension is not followed by a modification of corre- sponding degree. The dyadic group is the first in the nu- merical scale to show a unity and synthesis, but it also manifests an internal antithesis and opposition. The en- trance of a third element causes considerable modification. On the one hand it makes for a superindividual unity, and on the other hand it changes the direct and immediate reciprocity. Added to the direct relationship there is now an indirect relationship which both reinforces and inter- feres with the immediate reciprocity. The new group is less dependent on the immediate participation of the ele- ments than the dyadic group. It absorbs less of the total personality and can continue its existence if one element drops out. The function of the third and the configurations of triadic groups are herewith largely indicated. The dyadic group showed synthesis and antithesis. The entrance of a third element means transition, conciliation, renunciation both of the immediate reciprocity and of the direct opposi- tion. But it can also create oppositions formerly absent. The triadic group can therefore manifest three character- istic formations which are impossible in dyadic groups and which are likewise excluded from larger groups. Two of these configurations are known by the title of the third person, namely, the non-partisan arbitrator or mediator on the one hand, and the tertius gaudens on the other hand. The third configuration is usually indicated by the motto Dimde et impera. In the first instance, the non-partisanship of the third element serves the group as a whole. The conciliator or ar- bitrator aims to prevent a disruption of the existing unity between the opposing elements. The non-partisan can. however, also use his advanta-

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