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The Sociology of Vocational Prizes

Recognition as Esteem

Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS, Paris), heinich{at}ehess.fr

Artistic and scientific activities pertain to the world of ‘vocation’, which demonstrates a close relationship with recognition issues. Referring to recent trends in French, German and American sociology and political philosophy, this article addresses both the status of recognition in present-day sociology and the necessity of prizes in vocational activities. Grounded on two empirical surveys about literary and scientific prizes, it displays the various axiological problems raised by such a mode of recognition, as the ‘felicity conditions’ of this mode of recognition have to ensure a feeling of justice and avoid envious reactions. On a more theoretical ground, the article aims to demonstrate the necessity for sociology to shift, first, from material to ‘symbolic’ or, rather, ‘intangible’ outcomes; second, from a concern with power and domination to a concern with interdependency; and third, from recognition conceived as egalitarian respect to recognition conceived as un-egalitarian esteem.

Key Words: arts • awards • envy • evaluation • justice • recognition • sciences

Theory, Culture & Society, Vol. 26, No. 5, 85-107 (2009)
DOI: 10.1177/0263276409106352


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