Theory and practice of sociology
G D Bouma and P Hiller
12 points * 2 hours per week * First semester * Clayton
The purpose of this subject is to develop the student's ability to develop and to assess explanations in sociological analysis. This ability is seen as central to the sociological enterprise regardless of how it is conceived. Issues addressed include the definition of the subject matter of sociology, subjectivity and objectivity in sociology, and what constitutes an explanation and the types of explanation that exist. Finally the issue of what distinguishes sociological explanation will be raised. The seminar proceeds by way of the careful examination of the logic in use in specifically sociological work. Examples will be selected in such a way as to cover the widest range of types of explanation and styles of sociological enterprise.
Assessment
Weekly position papers (300 words each): 30% * Major essay (6000 words): 70%
Prescribed reading
Brown R Explanation in social science Aldine, 1963
Durkheim E The rules of sociological method Free Press, 1964
Weber M The theory of social and economic organisation Free Press, 1964
Recommended reading
Bernstein R J Beyond objectivism and relativism Basil Blackwell, 1983
Rosenberg A Philosophy of social science OUP, 1988