SOCB42H3 Study Guide - Utopia, Historical Method, Social Statics
Document Summary
Define the three types of sociological theory according to ashley and orenstein. Ashley and orenstein consider weber as an interpretivist" or hermeneutical theorist. Note that it is only possible if general scientific laws already exist. The test of the explanation tests the theory at the same time. Why: positivists believe that knowledge should be instrumental. Understand basic characteristics of history and philosophy that influenced the development of sociology. Understand plato"s and aristotle"s opposing views of politics and its potential to approach the truth. Define the concept of the philosopher king and understand why plato thought that a state governed by philosophers would be better than any other. According to ashley and orenstein, 19th c. france favoured a way of solving social problems different from the way accepted in britain. Understand characteristics of comte"s positivism and his view about the proper method of sociology. Note the division between social statics and social dynamics, which persisted into the 20th-c. sociology.
