Familial life in modern society

Essay from the year 2016 in the subject Sociology - Individual, Groups, Society, grade: 70+, , language: English, abstract: In order to explain and evaluate the process and concept of 'displaying families', this essay will first provide an overview of UK family life in contemporary society and discuss relevant theoretical concepts that aid in contextualising Finch's arguments. Subsequently, the process of 'displaying families' will be outlined, followed by its evaluation in the final section of this essay. Whilst evaluating the concept, the author will first focus on different family types (same-sex, transnational and commercial families), before engaging in a broader evaluation. He will argue that Finch's (2007) ideas constitute a valuable starting point to understand contemporary family lives and extend on Morgan's (1996) influential concept of 'family practices'. However, the author will also argue that relationships can exist as 'family-like' even if unsuccessfully displayed. Furthermore, he will argue that 'display' is an unequal process which is influenced by structural factors and power inequalities within families and society, and that this is more difficult for those in unconventional families, which Finch (2007) fails to acknowledge sufficiently. Overall, the author does not dismiss the concept but rather endorses Finch's call for further refinement, in order for it to become a valuable addition to the 'sociological tool kit'.