Selections from Western Social Theory in the 20th Century 1 (The Beginning and End of Social Theory)

Author: Su Guoxun, edited by Liu Xiaofeng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-06-01
Features: Social sciences only emerged in modern times, and although they now share the academic field with the so-called "natural sciences" and "humanities," they occupy a more prominent position in educational and cultural institutions and political systems. Social sciences generally refer to the collective term for various specific disciplines concerning "society." Social theory does not directly equate to social sciences but rather serves as the theoretical foundation for these diverse and numerous specific disciplines. The identity of a social theorist is somewhat akin to the "poets" of ancient Greece, the "theologians" of the Middle Ages, or the "metaphysicians" of the modern era; all of them attempt to provide teachable "absolute knowledge" by taking a comprehensive view. Recognizing the nature of Western learning has been an inescapable historical task for Chinese scholars since the late Qing Dynasty. Compiling this anthology is part of our effort to carry forward the unfinished legacy of our predecessors. The anthology includes works by major social theorists, but primarily features articles by recent Western social theorists who discuss, analyze, and reflect on this modern form of "absolute knowledge." It is divided into four parts:
Part 1: The Beginning and End of Social Theory
Part 2: The Theories of Social Theory
Part 3: The Epistemological Construction of Social Theory
Part 4: The Political Division of Social Theory