Just out: “Mapping “the ANT multiple”: A comparative, critical and reflexive analysis” by Laur Kanger (University of Sussex Science Policy Research Unit Brighton UK; University of Tartu Institute of Social Studies Tartu Estonia) in The Theory of Social Behavior.

Abstract

Despite decades of development, Actor‐Network Theory

(ANT) continues to be characterized by a good deal of

ambiguities and internal tensions. This situation has

led to a suggestion that instead of one ANT it may be

meaningful to speak of ‘the ANT multiple’. Following

this line of reasoning, this article aims to create a map

of the variety of positions riding under the ANT banner.

Based on an in‐depth reading of ANT literature, seven

different interpretations of ANT are identified and sub-

jected to critical analysis; it also accommodates for the

concerns of ANT proponents about the way ANT has

been previously criticized. The results of the analysis

serve to increase the reflexivity of both sides of the

debate about their underlying assumptions, and provide

suggestions how ANT could be employed, developed

and criticized more productively in the future.