Bourdieu Paradigm: The Origins and Evolution of an Intellectual Social Project

This book explores the historical development of competing philosophies of social science, examining the relations between phenomenology, Gestalt psychology, and empirical social science in the first half of the twentieth century and Bourdieu's response to this legacy. It questions the relevance of Bourdieu's paradigm for mass democratic societies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 03 July 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This book delves into the intricate examination of the historical evolution of competing philosophies of social science, drawing upon the insightful works of Schutz, Gurwitsch, Merleau-Ponty, and Bourdieu. It explores the intricate relationships between phenomenology, Gestalt psychology, and empirical social science during the first half of the twentieth century, shedding light on their interplay and influences. Moreover, it delves into Bourdieu's response to this legacy, advocating for a form of reflexive social-scientific investigation that remains true to primary experience while embracing the accumulated intellectualism of the past. The book poses a crucial question: does the Bourdieu 'paradigm' retain its value beyond the specific French conditions of its production? In answering this, it presents a comprehensive analysis of Bourdieu's thought and practice, inviting readers to reassess the significance of the western tradition of the social function of the detached intellectual in the context of mass democratic societies.

Introduction:
The study of social science has a rich and complex history, marked by the emergence of various philosophical perspectives and methodologies. In this book, we will explore the contributions of four influential thinkers: Schutz, Gurwitsch, Merleau-Ponty, and Bourdieu. These scholars have made significant strides in shaping our understanding of society and human behavior.

Schutz and Gurwitsch:
Schutz and Gurwitsch were German philosophers who emerged in the early twentieth century. They were known for their phenomenological approach to social science, which emphasized the subjective experiences and perceptions of individuals. Schutz, in particular, emphasized the importance of phenomenology in understanding the human condition and the complexities of social interaction.

Gurwitsch, on the other hand, was interested in the study of Gestalt psychology, which focused on the structure and organization of human perception and cognition. He argued that the Gestalt approach could provide valuable insights into the nature of social interaction and the formation of social structures.

Merleau-Ponty and Empirical Social Science:
Merleau-Ponty and empirical social science were closely intertwined during the first half of the twentieth century. Merleau-Ponty, a French philosopher, was deeply influenced by Gestalt psychology and sought to integrate it into his philosophical framework. He believed that phenomenology could be used to understand the subjective experiences of individuals and the social structures that shape them.

At the same time, empirical social science was gaining prominence, with scholars such as Weber and Marx developing theories and methods to study social phenomena. Merleau-Ponty's work was particularly influential in the development of sociological theory, as he sought to bridge the gap between the subjective experiences of individuals and the objective structures of society.

Bourdieu and Reflexive Social-Scientific Investigation:
Bourdieu, a French sociologist, emerged in the mid-twentieth century. He was known for his critical approach to social science, which emphasized the power and influence of social structures and institutions. Bourdieu's work was particularly influential in the field of sociology, as he sought to understand the mechanisms by which social inequality and discrimination are reproduced and maintained.

In response to the legacy of phenomenology, Gestalt psychology, and empirical social science, Bourdieu advocated for a form of reflexive social-scientific investigation. Reflexivity refers to the ability of social scientists to reflect on their own biases, assumptions, and cultural backgrounds, and to consider how these factors may influence their research and analysis. Bourdieu believed that reflexive social-scientific investigation could provide a more accurate and nuanced understanding of social phenomena.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book has explored the historical development of competing philosophies of social science, drawing upon the insights of Schutz, Gurwitsch, Merleau-Ponty, and Bourdieu. It has demonstrated the intricate relationships between phenomenology, Gestalt psychology, empirical social science, and Bourdieu's reflexive social-scientific investigation. The book has raised important questions about the value of the western tradition of the social function of the detached intellectual for mass democratic societies. It has offered a comprehensive analysis of Bourdieu's thought and practice, inviting readers to reassess the significance of the social function of the intellectual in the contemporary world.

Weight: 540g
Dimension: 304 x 241 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780719099397