Paradigms, Falsification, and Sociology
- 1 January 1973
- journal article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Acta Sociologica
- Vol. 16 (1) , 13-30
- https://doi.org/10.1177/000169937301600102
Abstract
This paper is concerned with examining closely Kuhn's notion of paradigm, as expressed in the first edition of his book and in more recent writings. The implications of the paradigm notion for two different forms of falsification are considered, and it is argued that both Popper's and Lakatos' versions of falsification are subject to similar criticisms. Paradigms and falsification are then briefly considered in terms of their relevance for sociology. Finally, it is argued that sociologists must turn their attention to a serious consideration of the importance of language in the practice of scienceKeywords
This publication has 8 references indexed in Scilit:
- The Structure of Scientific Fields and the Functioning of University Graduate DepartmentsAmerican Sociological Review, 1972
- Falsification and the Methodology of Scientific Research ProgrammesPublished by Cambridge University Press (CUP) ,1970
- The Nature of a ParadigmPublished by Cambridge University Press (CUP) ,1970
- Consolations for the SpecialistPublished by Cambridge University Press (CUP) ,1970
- Does the Distinction between Normal and Revolutionary Science Hold Water?Published by Cambridge University Press (CUP) ,1970
- Basic and Applied Research: A Meaningful Distinction?Science, 1967
- Disillusion and Regeneration: The Quest for a DisciplineAmerican Political Science Review, 1965
- The Sociology of Empirical Social ResearchAmerican Sociological Review, 1962