The Philosophy of Social Science
An Introduction

An introduction to the philosophy of social science from a well-known author.

Martin Hollis (Author)

9780521447805, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 1 September 1994

277 pages, 18 b/w illus.
21.6 x 13.8 x 1.9 cm, 0.385 kg

This textbook by Martin Hollis offers an exceptionally clear and concise introduction to the philosophy of social science. It examines questions which give rise to fundamental philosophical issues. Are social structures better conceived of as systems of laws and forces, or as webs of meanings and practices? Is social action better viewed as rational behaviour, or as self-expression? By exploring such questions, the reader is led to reflect upon the nature of scientific method in social science. Is the aim to explain the social world after a manner worked out for the natural world, or to understand the social world from within?

Preface
1. Introduction: problems of structure and action
2. Discovering truth: the rationalist way
3. Positive science: the empiricist way
4. Ants, spiders and bees: a third way?
5. Systems and functions
6. Games with rational agents
7. Understanding social action
8. Self and roles
9. Explaining and understanding
10. A value-neutral social science?
11. Rationality and relativism
12. Conclusion: two stories to tell
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: Social & political philosophy [HPS]