Reflexivity in the Practice of Social Action: From Self-to Inter-Relational Reflexivity

Abstract

We explore the nature of reflexivity in the context of social action and community work. In using the term social action, we are referring to collective action which seeks to transform the nature of local and societal conditions. We characterise such action as the creation of a social space in which stakeholders, representing different interests, come together to engage in joint activities to address issues of inequality and power. In such contexts, reflexivity is something more than the ‘self-reflexivity’ of the individual stakeholder, as social action requires a joint deconstruction of power in the voices and relationships operating between the stakeholders within a performative space. We name this form of reflexivity ‘inter-relational reflexivity’ and explore what such reflexivity may look like. We will suggest that inter-relational reflexivity goes beyond self-reflexivity and occurs dialogically including a concern for moral agency and the negotiation of accountability and responsibility for action. This in turn could lead to the translation of critical awareness in relation to others into social action, referred to as performativity.