Temporal Frameworks and Individual Cultural Activities

Abstract

The following article presents temporal frameworks articulated around two axes: synchrony/diachrony and instant/ duration. A framework is elaborated based on an analysis of how cultural activities bearing social and historical meaning fit into temporal frameworks on the individual level of consumers, or cultural actors. The argument identifies four types of time frames supporting individual action: `permanent present' frame, `modern time' frame, `fragmented time' frame and `in rhythm time' frame. Two studies, conducted on the topic of cultural activities involving theatre and museums, have been used to illustrate the conceptual model. They exemplify the relationship between the individual's temporal framework, his or her attitude with regard to culture and the type of cultural action he or she develops.