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Individualism

Theories and Methods

John Gaffney translator Pierre Birnbaum editor Jean Leca editor

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Oxford University Press

Published:25th Oct '90

Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back

Individualism cover

This collection features essays from prominent social scientists exploring individualism through various lenses, including historical, political, and sociological perspectives, while addressing its relationship with collective identity and methodology.

Individualism is a thought-provoking collection of essays by distinguished social scientists from various countries, exploring the concept of individualism through multiple lenses. The contributors engage with historical, methodological, hermeneutic, political, and sociological perspectives, enriching the ongoing discourse surrounding this vital topic. In recent times, the effectiveness of comprehensive social theories in addressing individual rights, responsibilities, and realities has faced increasing scrutiny, prompting a resurgence of interest in individualism as both a subject of study and a methodological approach.

The essays aim to bridge the gap between methodological individualism and the classical sociological approach, which emphasizes collective identity. By examining the nuances of individualism, the contributors highlight the complexities of reconciling individual agency with broader social structures. This dialogue is essential in understanding how individualism manifests in contemporary society and its implications for social theory.

The book features contributions from notable scholars, including Bertrand Badie, Pierre Birnbaum, Raymond Boudon, and Charles Tilly, among others. Their diverse insights provide a rich tapestry of thought that encourages readers to reflect on the significance of individualism in today's world. As the debate continues to evolve, Individualism stands as a crucial resource for anyone interested in the intersection of individual rights and collective identities in the realm of social science.

'Full of felicities and good argument, Birnbaum and Leca have provided a timely and important volume, exposing old as well as new weaknesses in methodological individualism, while offering many examples of alternative approaches and applications that are in danger of being subsumed by the banal orthodoxy of rational choice theory. It will be instructive to students and a resource to scholars.' Ian Forbes, University of Southampton, Political Studies (1992) XL

ISBN: 9780198273240

Dimensions: 224mm x 144mm x 26mm

Weight: 591g

348 pages