The Philosophy of Social Science ─ New Perspectives

Now in its second edition, this comprehensive textbook offers an exceptionally accessible yet in-depth introduction to the philosophy of social science. Students with no previous knowledge will find themselves taken on an engaging philosophical journey: the book’s unique dialogue format anticipates their most frequently asked questions and provides clear explanations of specialised terminology and essential contextualisation of contemporary debates.

Encompassing both traditional and contemporary perspectives, the book explores the questions and debates raised by all the major theoretical positions in the philosophy of social science, including positivism, empiricism, rationalism, hermeneutics, feminist epistemology, postmodernism and critical realism. The second edition has newly written chapters on methodological individualism, rational choice theory and pragmaticism, as well as strengthened coverage of hermeneutics, postmodernism and critical realism.

The book‘s rich pedagogic support includes:

• point-by-point summaries introducing the scope of every chapter;
• discussion questions;
• further reading lists;
• and a glossary of key terminology.

This excellent textbook is designed to provide every student with a clear understanding of important and complex issues. It is essential reading for all students of philosophy of social science, whether at undergraduate or Masters level and regardless of their disciplinary background.

Dr Garry Potter is?a professor in the Faculty of Arts at Wilfrid Laurier University, Canada. He is also a documentary film-maker.