Fact-making and Pragmatics of Funerary Rites : Managing Uncertainties of Life and Death
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| Year of publication | 2022 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
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| Description | Human beings are routinely skilled in managing uncertainties of life. When solving problems characterized by numerous uncertainties, they tend to combine tested and planned approaches with methods more uncertain in terms of expected results. Admitting inherent uncertainties of outcomes as well as uncertainties inscribed in the (definition of the) situation itself facilitates readiness for improvisation and for acceptance of the unexpected as an efficient pragmatic attitude. The presentation analyses ethnomethodologically the interplay of actors’ factual work, uncertainties, strong emotions and social bonds of mutual support in handling the life-threatening situation and ultimately the departure of a young (40) family member. Throughout this interplay, it will demonstrate the pragmatic efficiency of ritual action as a means to handle an uncertain situation and to make the mourning bereaved ready for challenges that are yet to come. |
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