LUHMANNS SOCIOLOGICAL-THEORY - ITS OPERATIONALIZATION AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Luhmann (1984) has proposed a second-order theory of social communicat ions, but its formalization in terms of second-order systems theory ha s remained underdeveloped. Second-order system theory is a formal opti on and furthermore, Shannon's (1948) mathematical theory of communicat ion is available The operationalization of Luhmann-type (reflexive) co mmunications in terms of Shannon-type (first-order) communications has theoretical consequences: one is able to distinguish, more clearly th an Luhmann did between not (yet) meaningful information (''uncertainty '') and its potential meaning after selection by an observing system. Structural coupling between co-evolving system can be distinguished fr om operational coupling between subsystems This operationalization pro vides ur with means to clarify: among other things, the theoretical de bate between Munch and Luhmann about Parsons' concept of ''interpenetr ation''. Technological developments can be analysed in terms of operat ional and recursive coupling at the interfaces between sciences and ma rkets. In a triple helix model of university-industry-government relat ions codes of functionally differentiated communication can be transla ted into each other. Interorganizational configurations support the em erging communication system.