Randall Collins’ book on interaction rituals, while intimidating in title, offers a unique perspective on social interaction based on Durkheim, Goffman, and Mead. His theory suggests that rituals amplify emotions, motivating individuals to act beyond immediate situations. Controversially, Collins argues that individuals seek emotional energy in ritual situations, driving their behavior. Symbols charged with value in successful rituals reinforce group identities and motivate action. Collins emphasizes the importance of successful emotional entrainment in rituals, comparing shared emotional experiences to physical resonance. The book presents intriguing ideas on the power of rituals in shaping beliefs, identities, and social structures, with applications to various aspects of society such as sexuality, power dynamics, tobacco consumption, and individualism.
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