The New Pragmatist Sociology: Inquiry, Agency, and Democracy

Pragmatist thought is essential to sociology, but sociologists often encounter it indirectly. The New Pragmatist Sociology examines questions of methodology, social interaction, and politics across the themes of inquiry, agency, and democracy, with contributions from a range of sociologists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 456 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2022
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Pragmatist thought holds a pivotal position within the realm of sociology, yet it often manifests itself indirectly, as a philosophy of science or as an influence on canonical social scientists. In contemporary sociology, pragmatism serves as a valuable source of theory, research questions, and methodological reflection rather than being a primary driver of these aspects. To delve into the core concepts and their historical and theoretical connections to classical pragmatism, The New Pragmatist Sociology brings together a diverse group of sociologists under the editorship of Neil Gross, Isaac Ariail Reed, and Christopher Winship. This comprehensive volume explores a wide range of topics related to methodology, social interaction, and politics, encompassing the overarching themes of inquiry, agency, and democracy. The essays within the book engage in a profound and multifaceted exploration of subjects that resonate with both pragmatist philosophy and sociology, including rationality, speech, truth, expertise, and methodological pluralism.

Contributors to this esteemed work include renowned sociologists such as Natalie Aviles, Karida Brown, Daniel Cefaï, Mazen Elfakhani, Luis Flores, Daniel Huebner, Cayce C. Hughes, Paul Lichterman, John Levi Martin, Ann Mische, Vontrese D. Pamphile, Jeffrey N. Parker, Susan Sibley, Daniel Silver, Mario Small, Iddo Tavory, Stefan Timmermans, Luna White, and Joshua Whitford. Their insightful contributions shed light on the intricate interplay between pragmatism and sociology, offering valuable insights and perspectives that enrich the field.

In conclusion, The New Pragmatist Sociology serves as a groundbreaking exploration of the intersection between pragmatism and sociology. By assembling a diverse array of sociologists and engaging in a rigorous examination of key concepts, the book provides a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners alike. It deepens our understanding of the theoretical foundations and methodological implications of pragmatism in sociology, fostering a more nuanced and comprehensive approach to social inquiry.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231203784