Recognition in the other one: self assertion and communicative action in extremely excluded people

Abstract

This article analyzes, in the light of a qualitative research, how a group of homeless orient themselves towards their constitution as social actors. We investigate those relational aspects that, in profound social exclusion conditions, emerge as collective action articulators. Thus, it is discovered in them a potential to transform their surroundings and environment and their own lives, insofar as they recognize each other as legitimate others and rights holders. Ultimately, there is a need for an approximation of their life experiences in sociological recognition of their dialogic and reflexive competences which permits self assertion as subjects.