Irrationality of Rationality Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does 'Irrationality of rationality' imply?

It eliminates all forms of exceptions.

It makes predictability the new goal. (correct)

It leads to efficiency.

It is a positive attribute of society.

Provide an example of 'Irrationality of rationality'.

School system and DMV

What is a 'Velvet Cage'?

Society is rationalized, we know this and are comfortable with it.

What is a 'Rubber Cage'?

Society is rationalized but there is still room for exceptions. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'Iron Cage'?

Society is completely rationalized (McDonaldized). Signup and view all the answers

What is the own definition of 'Velvet Cage'?

We love it; feel integrated and comfortable with their routine. Signup and view all the answers

What is the own definition of 'Rubber Cage'?

We kinda like it; the cage can be stretched. Signup and view all the answers

What is the own definition of 'Iron Cage'?

We hate it; feeling trapped and killing humanity. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'Institutional Myth'?

Having blind trust in institutions because that is where the professionals are. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Irrationality of Rationality

Pursuit of predictability and calculability in a rationalized society can lead to inefficiency.
The goal of rationality itself can create inefficiencies in systems.

Examples of Irrationality

Educational systems and bureaucratic entities like the DMV illustrate inefficiencies stemming from rational structures.

Velvet Cage

Represents a comfortable rationalized society where individuals feel integrated and secure.
Routine and predictability provide a sense of comfort.

Rubber Cage

Signifies a rationalized society with space for individual exceptions and flexibility.
Allows for personal escapes like vacations and home-cooked meals as temporary relief.

Iron Cage

Describes a fully rationalized society, as epitomized by the concept of McDonaldization.
Characterized by a lack of freedoms, leading to feelings of entrapment and loss of humanity.

Personal Perceptions of Cages

Velvet Cage evokes positive feelings of comfort and safety.
Rubber Cage fosters a sense of mild contentment but recognizes its temporary nature.
Iron Cage leads to negative emotions, akin to imprisonment, highlighting discontent with societal constraints.

Institutional Myth

Refers to a blind trust in institutions, stemming from the belief that professionals operate within these structures.

Description

Explore the concept of the 'irrationality of rationality' through flashcards. Learn how the pursuit of predictability and efficiency can lead to inefficiencies in society, with examples from systems like schools and the DMV. Ideal for students studying sociology or philosophy.