On Consensus, Tensions and Sociology at the Dawn of the 21st Century

Abstract

Discusses general trends in sociology, representations of those trends in various subfields, & recent advances in specialized areas. Three major changes that have occurred in sociology in recent years are discussed. The first is a shift in the scale of analysis from social actors, communities, or institutions, toward a broader range of units leading to macrosociological analyses of a world society. Challenges involved in addressing social phenomena at a global level are discussed. Another important change involves unresolved issues in sociological discourse, especially the nature of social agency/structure, & the cogency of interpretive vs causal methodological approaches. Also noted is a renewal of tensions stemming from debates over issues surrounding paradigms & theoretical perspectives. Key tensions include specialization vs amalgamation; involvement vs disengagement; & methodological disputes. It is maintained that recognition & acceptance of a multiplicity of paradigms & theoretical approaches is an indication of the discipline's greater maturity. The organization of the book is outlined, & a synopsis of each chapter is presented. J. Lindroth.