Tourism as a social system: theoretical contrasts between Talcott Parsons and Niklas Luhmann
Abstract
Tourism, beyond its economic dimension, represents a complex social phenomenon that requires comprehensive analytical approaches. In this context, the present study contrasts two sociological perspectives relevant to understanding contemporary tourism dynamics: Talcott Parsons’ functionalist theory and Niklas Luhmann’s autopoietic systems theory. Through a qualitative methodological approach based on a consultative panel of international experts and a systematic and multimodal literature review, this study identifies both the convergences and divergences between these theoretical frameworks. Parsons conceptualises tourism as a subsystem with specific functions aimed at ensuring social stability, whereas Luhmann emphasises its operational autonomy and the communicative logic that differentiates it from other social systems. Although both perspectives provide valuable analytical tools, they also present limitations in terms of interpreting disruptive change and practical applicability. It is concluded that the complementary integration of both theoretical frameworks offers a more comprehensive and sophisticated analysis of tourism, while also opening opportunities for future research exploring the interaction between social structures, tourism communication, and public policies in rapidly changing global scenarios.Keywords:
tourism , social systems , functionalism , autopoiesis , communicationReferences
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