Actor-network
theory extends semotics to focus on material objects rather than just symbols.
Actor-network theory sees sign as emerging from the context in which entities
are located. Actor-network theory attempts to understand action, less from the
perspective of the actor, but rather in terms of its location within a network
and its relationship to non-material objects. From this perspective,
non-material objects are capable of action (as actants), although objects are
considered inferior partners to humans. The interactions of these components
are viewed not as consistent and patternable networks, but rather as a fluid
combination of interactions at various levels of social life that are performed
by actors and actants. Actor-network theory breaks down many analytical
distinctions used in other social theories, such as micro/macro and
agency/structure, to help make sense of social phenomena.
