Definitions of human beings as "symbolic animals" emphasize our capacity to form theories and general laws that can be applied to common social experience. This is balanced by an equally strong will to define events and conditions that are particular to specific times, places, and individuals. In this volume, Dennis H. Wrong argues that the scientific standard of universal laws and propositions has only limited relevance to human historical phenomena.

Wrong identifies the essential questions for social science as the place of nature and nurture in forming personality, the sources of variation in human conduct and culture, the causes of deviations from social norms, how human motivations are socially shaped and controlled to make society possible, and, finally, the causes of social change. Because successive generations of thinkers have given varying answers to these questions, no cumulative progress can be said to have occurred. Wrong argues that the unity of theory and research sought by American sociologists cannot be obtained in social theory.

In terms of sociological practice, this has created a disparity between the canonical theories of Marx, Durkheim, and Weber, and the empirically oriented methodologies of current social research--especially questionnaires, fieldwork, and statistical research. Wrong attributes this disparity to postmodern skepticism about the potential of the social sciences to create a body of knowledge that might positively reshape human society. Between the large-scale theoretical constructs of classical theory and the overly particularistic tendencies associated with postmodernism, Wrong argues for a historically oriented approach emphasizing unforeseen, accidental agents as a foundation for modestly conceived theories.

Wrong emphasizes that the capacity to avoid predictable, standardized responses, whether they are based on instinct or ingrained habit, is the source of human creativity. Homo sapiens is as much a particularizing as a generalizing animal. That is the major theme of this effort at the humanization of a discipline divided by space, time, and purpose.

About the Author

Dennis Wrong

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Quickhatch Books
ON, Canada

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

For promptest turnaround, please consider using ABE's safe and secure system to purchase direct via ABE-processed credit card.

For customers paying other than by ABE-processed credit card:
New customers: Items will be shipped promptly upon receipt of payment.
Established and returning customers: Items will be shipped and billed.

Shipping Terms

Shipping per stated rates or less; as noted, some heavy/bulky items may be assessed additional postage, esp. for international or rush delivery.

International (non-Canadian/non-U.S.) customers please note: international small packets and parcels can take much longer than the notional delivery times, and surface packages are NOT traceable.

W McLean
Quickhatch Books
267 Ste-C�cile St
Ottawa, ON
K1L 5K9
ag737@ncf.ca
613 322 2225

Shipping rates from Canada to U.S.A.

Shipping rates from Canada to U.S.A.
Order quantity	7 to 21 business days	4 to 6 business days
First item	US$ 14.00	US$ 18.00

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.