Theorizing the Standoff Contingency in Action [Paperback]

In this book, theoretical analysis and real life case studies are combined to explore the nature of the standoff.This book combines original theoretical analysis with real life case studies to examine the nature of the standoff. The author explores the archetypal patterns of human action and cognition that move us into and out of these highly charged situations and seeks to theorize the contingency of all such moments. Evoking original ideas about time, space and appropriate or anticipated action, this book aims to develop a theory of the fundamental existential indeterminacy of social life and the role improvisation can play in preventing violent outcomes.This book combines original theoretical analysis with real life case studies to examine the nature of the standoff. The author explores the archetypal patterns of human action and cognition that move us into and out of these highly charged situations and seeks to theorize the contingency of all such moments. Evoking original ideas about time, space and appropriate or anticipated action, this book aims to develop a theory of the fundamental existential indeterminacy of social life and the role improvisation can play in preventing violent outcomes.This book combines original theoretical analysis with real life case studies to examine the nature of the standoff. The author explores seven actual standoffs between anti-state groups and organizations of law enforcement (six from the United Staes and one from Peru), and the archetypal patterns of human action and cognition that move us into and out of these highly charged situations. Evoking original ideas about time, space and appropriate or anticipated action, she develops a theory of the fundamental existential indeterminacy of social life and the role improvisation can play in preventing violent outcomes.Acknowledgements; 1. Theorizing contingency; 2. The times of standoffs; 3. The spaces of standoffs; 4. The action of standoffs; 5. Endings and improvisations. Wagnerl#�