20
NihiIationZtherapy as conceptual machinery maintaining
a universe of meaning
Berger and Luckmann (1966:122-134) discuss the problems of
maintaining a particular universe of meaning.
Such maintenance
has to deal continuously with the socialization of individuals,
which may be more or less successful.
The maintenance of the universe of meaning becomes a problem
when deviant versions are held not only by individuals but by
groups. Berger and Luckmann point out that various forms of
repression may then result. Most importantly, however, such
repression must be legitimated theoretically in order to maintain
the universe of meaning.
Historically, examples of such legitimation are seen in
theological writings to combat heresy (and support the repression
of heretics).
However the case is more serious when the threat arises not
within the one symbolic universe (as with heresy in the Christian
Church), but when the threat arises from an alternative universe
of meaning with its roots in a different historical evolution.
Measures must then be taken by the dominant group to preserve
its own symbolic universe.
Berger and Luckmann (1966:127) discuss some of the types of
conceptual machinery used to systematize normative and cognitive
legitimations - namely mythology, theology, philosophy and science.
Some form of conceptual machinery is necessary in order to maintain
these overall systematizations. Berger and Luckmann discuss
the conceptual machinery of nihiIation and therapy,
t
Therapy entails processes directed towards keeping deviants
within the universe of meaning. Examples are available from those
schools of psychiatric treatment and of classroom practice which
are aimed at ’adjusting* the individual to society. Therapy is
employed to return the deviant individual to the norms of the
mainstream group.