Valuation constellations - theoretical considerations for the sociology of valuation

The article discusses central research questions currently prevailing in the sociology of valuation. It argues that the perspective of "methodological situationalism", which currently dominates within valuation studies, overemphasizes "moments" of valuation, and thus ignores trans-situational forces, which are highly consequential in processes of valuation. On the basis of this diagnosis, the article puts forth the concept of "valuation constellations" which allows observing valuations' transsituativity in a systematical manner. The concept distinguishes different positions - valuee, valuator, and audience - and emphasizes the relevance of their relations in shaping valuations. Moreover, the article underscores that valuation constellations always unfold against the background of trans-situationally valid rules as well as technological infrastructures operating on a trans-situational level. Ultimately, the concept facilitates new research questions for the sociology of valuation.