New philosophies of social science : realism, hermeneutics, and critical theory /

One title in the "Theoretical Traditions in the Social Sciences" series under the general editorship of Anthony Giddens. Outhwaite's book deals with realism, hermeneutics, and critical theory, which he sees as the three leading current alternatives to the now discredited tradition of empiricism. The author argues for a realism along the lines developed by Roy Bhaskar. However, he tries to show that this realism is compatible with the valuable contributions of both hermeneutics and critical theory. The result is a cautious defense of scientific realism as the most viable framework for advancing human emancipation. This book is keyed to current discussions in social theory and the philosophy of the social sciences. It is compactly argued and it presupposes a general familiarity with the positions discussed. Outhwaite (sociology, University of Sussex) makes a valuable contribution in sifting through the discussions of hermeneutics and critical theory to clarify what is and is not compatible with realism in these traditions. -R. H. Hudelson, University of Minnesota--Duluth