Masyarakat dan Persoalan Definisi Situasi: Perspektif William I. Thomas

Abstract

Definition of situation, a term coined by W.I. Thomas, reflects and represents human experience toward his environment. It is also  a means to indentify factors that are playing in his circumstances and give light to his personal existence.  Definition of situation shapes the reality under which is scrutinied, as well as the identity of the subject who defines the reality. Thomas views that there are three types of definition of situation according which society is constructed, i.e. society that clings to the tradition, society that is adaptable to its environment, and society that is creative and innovative. With this definition of situation the articles analysis the situation in Indonesia, Papua, and Islamic community in Indonesia.