Structures and Agency

Structures and agency are concepts used to understand human behavior and social dynamics. Structures refer to the organized patterns and systems—like laws, norms, economic systems, and institutions—that shape or constrain individual actions. Agency, on the other hand, is the capacity of individuals to make choices and act independently. The relationship between the two involves understanding how societal forces influence personal decisions, while individuals also have the power to challenge or change those forces through their actions. This balance shapes how societies evolve and how personal progress occurs within existing frameworks.