Towards a Sociology of the Open Society: Critical Rationalism and the Open Society Volume II

This book applies critical rationalism to develop a new sociology of the open society and analyze the transition from a closed society to an open society. It criticizes Karl Popper's analysis and proposes five mechanisms of opening up closed societies through social change. It is of interest to researchers, policymakers, and civil society activists.

Format: Hardback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the realm of critical rationalism, a philosophical framework, to establish a novel sociology of the open society. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the transition from a closed society to an open society, specifically focusing on the role of human action in driving social change.

The book begins by critiquing Karl Popper's understanding of human action as a means to open up a closed society. It argues that Popper's approach, which emphasizes the importance of individual choice and rational decision-making, fails to account for the complex social and cultural factors that shape human behavior.

To address this gap, the book conducts a critical study of mainstream sociology. It demonstrates how justificational models of knowledge and rational action have hindered sociology from fully recognizing the contribution of human action to social change. By employing the principles of critical rationalism, the book proposes five mechanisms for opening up a closed society. These mechanisms are inspired by the philosophy of critical rationalism and aim to promote a higher level of critical rationality among individuals and social institutions.

The book is a pioneering effort in applying the philosophy of critical rationalism to establish a normative sociology of the open society. It appeals to postgraduate researchers and professional readers in philosophy, sociology, moral science, law, politics, and economics. Moreover, this book will be valuable to research centers, policymakers, and civil society activists who are interested in exploring the ideas of critical rationalism and the open society.

In conclusion, this book offers a fresh perspective on the sociology of the open society by integrating the principles of critical rationalism. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the transition from a closed to an open society and highlights the crucial role of human action in driving social change. By offering practical mechanisms for opening up closed societies, the book contributes to the ongoing debate about the nature and direction of social change in our world.

Weight: 510g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367461324