Improvisation als 'Handeln im Kollektiv'

The paper proposes a relational conceptualisation of collective action. We develop an understanding of collective action beyond rational models of actions and the homogenisation of the collective: collectives are emerging, triadically constituted forms of sociality characterised by a tentative and precarious inclusion of the other. From this perspective, the collective denotes a characteristic of the relation between ego, alter, and tertius, which is characterised by a low degree of stabilised knowledge of action and interpretation, available typification and a fluid formation. From a first person perspective, the lack of typicality points to an increased need for situational, improvised action. Furthermore, we state materiality (‘objectivations’) as constitutive for collective action, which is why performativity and artistry are often part of collective situations. An empirical example is given to demonstrate the viability of our approach.