The Uncertain Science: Criticism of Sociological Formalism

by Ahmed Gurnah, Alan Scott

Overview

First published in 1992, this clear and assured book reveals the blind alleys of sociological theory and research. The authors present a bold and persuassive case for abandoning the quest for foundationalism in the social science. Well informed and cogently argued, this will be of particular intrest to students of Sociology and Philosophy.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780415611701
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	06/07/2012
Series:	Routledge Revivals
Pages:	220
Product dimensions:	5.44(w) x 8.50(h) x (d)

About the Author

Ahmed Gurnah formerly taught Sociology at Sheffield Polytechnic, and Alan Scott teaches Sociology at the University of East Anglia.

Table of Contents

Part I Formalism and the formation of sociological discourse 1. Empiricism and positivism in history and sociology 2. Philosophical formalism and the development of sociology Part II Formalism in contemporary sociology 3. Claude Levi-Strauss: universal categories and the end of racism 4. Jurgen Habermas: universal categories and the primary of the Occient Part III Some consequences of formalism for sociological analysis 5. Modernization, modernity and beyond: recent trends in social theory 6. Conclusion: theory and history