Toward Transformation in Social Knowledge

Gergen, Kenneth J.

ISBN 10: 0803989725 / ISBN 13: 9780803989726

Published by SAGE Publications Ltd, 1993

About this Item

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Seller Inventory # ERICA77308039897256

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Toward Transformation in Social Knowledge
• Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd
• Publication Date: 1993
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0803989725
• ISBN 13: 9780803989726
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition: 2nd Edition
• Condition: Like New
• Book Type: book

About this title

Synopsis

Discomfort with traditional empirical methods and the quest for cumulative knowledge of human action has become widespread. The recognition of theoretical and methodological inadequacies has sparked a search for a more robust conception of human science. Now, in Toward Transformation in Social Knowledge, Kenneth J. Gergen develops the ground for a view of human science as social construction. Demonstrating that descriptions of human action can neither be based in--nor corrected by--scientific observation, he provides a bold challenge to traditional views, and clears the way for new alternatives in scientific practice. This second edition contains a new introduction showing the place of this work within those movements which have taken place since it was first published nearly a decade ago. Interdisciplinary in its approach, this book will be essential reading for psychologists, sociologists, and others who seek a fresh understanding of our concept of social knowledge.

About the Author

Kenneth J. Gergen is a Senior Research Professor in Psychology at Swarthmore College, and the President of the Taos Institute. He is internationally known for his contributions to social constructionist theory, technology and cultural change, the self, aging, education, and relational theory and practices. His major writings include, Realities and Relationships: Soundings in Social Construction, The Saturated Self: Dilemmas of Identity in Contemporary Life, and Relational Being: Beyond Self and Community. His most recent work Beyond the Tyranny of Testing: Relational Evaluation in Education (with Scherto Gill) offers a relational constructionist alternative to the destructive practices of testing and grading in education. Gergen lectures throughout the world, and has received numerous awards for his work, including honorary degrees in both the U.S. and Europe.