Rules of Sociological MethodFirst published in 1895: Emile Durkheim's masterful work on the nature and scope of sociology--now with a new introduction and improved translation by leading scholar Steven Lukes.The Rules of the Sociological Method is among the most important contributions to the field of sociology, still debated among scholars today. Through letters, arguments, and commentaries on significant debates, Durkheim confronted critics, clarified his own position, and defended the objective scientific method he applied to his study of humans. This updated edition offers an introduction and extra notes as well as a new translation to improve the clarity and accessibility of this essential work. In the introduction, Steven Lukes, author of the definitive biography Emile Durkheim: His Life and Work, spells out Durkheim's intentions, shows the limits of Durkheim's view of sociology, and presents its political background and significance. Making use of the various texts in this volume and Durkheim's later work, Lukes discusses how Durkheim's methodology was modified or disregarded in practice--and how it is still relevant today. With substantial notes on context, this user-friendly edition will greatly ease the task of students and scholars working with Durkheim's method--a view that has been a focal point of sociology since its original publication. The Rules of the Sociological Method will engage a new generation of readers with Durkheim's rich contribution to the field." |
Contents
Introduction by Steven Lukes | 1 |
Preface | 31 |
Introduction | 48 |
Rules for the Distinction of the Normal | 85 |
Rules for the Constitution of Social Types | 108 |
Rules for the Demonstration of Sociological | 147 |
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Common terms and phrases
according Année sociologique Auguste Comte believe causal causes character characteristics civilisation classification collective consciousness complex Comte conceived conception consequently constitute constraint contrary crime defined definition demonstrated depend determine distinct division of labour Durkheim economic economic materialism effect elements environment essential established ethnography example exist explain express external forces forms function groups historian human idea individual consciousness individual psychology influence institutions kind less linked Max Weber means merely method mind moral Moreover nature normal normal sociology notions object observation organisation particular phenomenon philosophy political economy positive science possible postulate practice precisely present principle produced progress psychology question realised reality relate relationships religion religious representations role Rules scientific SEIGNOBOS sentiments sickness social environment social facts social phenomena social sciences social species social types society sociologist sociology subject matter substratum sui generis suicide term theory things thinking tion true unconscious viewpoint