The separation of time and space. This is the condition of time-space distanciation of indefinite scope; it provides means of precise temporal and spatial zoning. … The development of disembedding mechanisms. These “lift out” social activity from localised contexts, reorganising social relations across large time-space distances. … The reflexive appropriation of knowledge. The production of systematic knowledge about social life becomes integral to system reproduction, rolling social life away from the fixities of tradition.

Anthony Giddens, The Consequences of Moderni…, loc. 131