ABSTRACT
In the action theory Parsons 1 in large measure follows a well-trodden path. He takes as his starting point the social system. This is clearly made up of institutions which, in turn, are made up of roles. Roles are generated from actions. The social system therefore falls into place as one of several possible action systems, explicable in terms of the general action theory. Social actions are but one of a group of possible types of action. In addition to society there are three other systems which belong under this rubric of action systems. They interpenetrate and interact with each other. These systems are nature, personality, and the culture system. The social system is regarded as being independent of the others. That is to say, logically speaking, it is quite distinct although as an empirical fact society is composed of individuals who share a common culture and a common life. We can start with Parsons’ definition:
