Anatomy of an Abstract System

Giddens writes a lot about how, in modern times, we rely on numerous abstract systems to generate trust and a sense of ontological security in an otherwise “runaway world.” Giddens’ favorite example of an abstract system is the airline industry, but there are countless others. For this activity, pick your own example of an abstract system and explain how it functions to create trust and security. Also think about the ways that this system may produce new forms of risk and negative consequences (like air pollution or increased surveillance of individuals, in the airline example).