Society of singularities

Abstract

This chapter turns to recent advances in sociology of singularities (Reckwitz 2020) to advance the study of digital sigularization in four key respects. First, by opening up singularization research to the realities of late-modern society, dubbed as society of singularities by Reckwitz. Second, to (re)consider the role of digitalization and technology in singularization. The sociology of singularities finds in digitalization one of the key structural drivers propelling society from industrial modernity dominated by the social logic of the general to society of singularities (the social logic of the particular/singular). Third, Reckwitz offers useful tools to explore the processes and practices of collective singularization. Lastly, his sociology of singularities provides a fresh vantage point for further reflecting on Web3 and the evolution of Web imaginaries covered in Part II of the book.