Constellation Theory: Connecting the Disconnected

Abstract When we refer to “structure,” it is in reference to the ordering of other areas of society (e.g., class structuring politics). Structure, however, cannot be fully understood without consideration given to individuals and groups vital to their maintenance or imposition, or the role of “agency,” as well as the often implicit but governing tapestries draped over communities and society, otherwise known as “culture.” In the last half-century, network theorists have demonstrated the potential for understanding the connectivity between social circles and relationships, including the role of structure and agency, but commonly without consideration to culture. Additionally, while these theories of network analysis have been applied in the field of leisure studies, it has not been developed in the depth it deserves. Thus, this effort seeks to extend core attributes of network theory, in tandem with the key modifying concepts of structure, agency, and culture, in the curation of a novel explanatory construct, constellation theory. The hope is that it will be applied by scholars in developing a fuller and more robust understanding of the role of leisure in connecting the disconnected with the goal of leading to better communication, resource sharing, and the reduction of impediments to social progress through leisure.