National Traditions in Sociology

Since the beginning of the twentieth century, the discipline of sociology has grown enormously--in its literature, in its influence, and in its institutional development. Now, as a result of it being recognized as a major field of study in all parts of the world, sociology has entered a new phase of its existence--as a genuine international science. Nikolai Genov looks back over the past few decades since World War II to study the manner in which national conditions determine the content of sociological theorizing. The present collection provides abundant empirical evidence and theoretical analyses of the wide variety of national sociological traditions--contributed by well known scholars in the international scientific community. Intriguing case studies are used to represent the major regions of worldwide sociology and to cover its main theoretical directions. The contributors suggest that there is a growing need for scholars to understand the context of disciplinary development in other countries. This indispensable volume will make the mutual understanding among scholars easier and enrich their visions on the means and ends of international sociology. "These essays, well written and carefully documented, are both interesting and intriguing. What one learns is that the culture, politics, and traditions of each of these countries shape the discipline, order the research agendas, and define the central issues of the field. . . . For the professional sociologist this collection offers a marvelous opportunity to discover how one's colleagues in other countries approach sociology. But it also offers an opportunity for the professional sociologist to realize that American sociology is not universally accepted as the model of the discipline. Indeed, after reading this volume one might gain an appreciation and understanding of how American sociologists champion their approach." --Choice