Anthony Giddens: Reflexive Modernisation and the Politics of Everyday Life

Abstract

Anthony Giddens defines life politics as a project of self-actualisation shaped by the conditions of globalisation. Linking this idea to his theory of structuration, he emphasises the active, reflexive role of individuals as human agents who both shape and are shaped by social structures. Within this framework, he calls for a renewal of social democracy centred on developing human and social capital rather than relying primarily on redistribution. His proposed ‘radical centre’ seeks to move beyond both traditional social democracy and neoliberalism by prioritising policies that expand opportunity through investment in human capabilities and social participation. This vision advances a ‘new egalitarianism’ concerned less with equal outcomes than with enabling individuals to realise their potential. In the context of reflexive modernisation, Giddens also highlights transformations in civil society, recognising that processes of wealth creation can generate unintended and potentially harmful consequences, which he terms ‘manufactured risks’. Overall, he portrays contemporary life as marked by heightened uncertainty, as individuals pursue security and fulfilment in a rapidly changing social order.