The Theory of Practices

The Theory of Practices views social life as made up of routine activities and behaviors that are interconnected within shared social contexts. It emphasizes that practices—like cooking, teaching, or commuting—are composed of elements such as skills, tools, and shared understandings. These practices are influenced by and reinforce social structures, shaping how people behave and interact. Instead of focusing solely on individual choices or institutions, this theory highlights how our everyday actions collectively sustain and reproduce societal norms and cultures over time.