Conceptualising the Social World
Principles of Sociological Analysis

Showing that different approaches can be combined in a single disciplinary framework, Scott argues that sociologists can transcend theoretical differences.

John Scott (Author)

9780521711364, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 23 June 2011

344 pages, 4 b/w illus.
22.8 x 15.2 x 1.5 cm, 0.54 kg

'One notable feature of Scott's book is his determined invocation of a wide and historically deep range of thinkers when considering each sociological principle. Some of these thinkers are well known - Parsons gets a lengthy treatment in the chapter on system, Freud and Mead are discussed in the chapter on mind. But many others are less familiar, at least within a sociological context … The appearance of such unusual suspects may well inspire readers to delve into the past in a way that enriches their own work.' Stephen Kemp, Sociology

This comprehensive and authoritative statement of fundamental principles of sociological analysis integrates approaches that are often seen as mutually exclusive. John Scott argues that theorising in sociology and other social sciences is characterised by the application of eight key principles of sociological analysis: culture, nature, system, structure, action, space-time, mind and development. He considers the principal contributions to the study of each of these dimensions in their historical sequence in order to bring out the cumulative character of knowledge. Showing that the various principles can be combined in a single disciplinary framework, Scott argues that sociologists can work most productively within an intellectual division of labour that transcends artificial theoretical and disciplinary differences. Sociology provides the central ideas for conceptualising the social, but it must co-exist productively with other social science disciplines and disciplinary areas.

1. Diversity and continuity in social theory
2. Culture: the socialisation of meaning
3. Nature: conditions and constraints
4. Systemic processes: regulation and control
5. Space-time: forms and practices
6. Social structure: institutions and relations
7. Social action: interpersonal and collective
8. Subjects: socialised minds
9. Social development: differentiation and change
10. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: Philosophy of science [PDA], Political science & theory [JPA], Social theory [JHBA], History of ideas [JFCX]