The Oxford handbook of philosophy of social science /

This reference book in contemporary philosophy of social science is suitable for graduate students and faculty working in the field. It features 25 valuable essays, each on a specific topic by a specialist currently working in the field. An introductory essay by editor Kincaid locates the entire collection within the context of a postpositivist philosophy of science that remains committed to a naturalistic standpoint and to the existence of philosophically important commonalities between the social and natural sciences. The handbook is divided into five parts. The longest part deals with issues pertaining to mechanisms, explanation, and causation. Other parts deal with evidence, cultural norms, sociology of knowledge, and connections with normative issues. In keeping with the volume's postpositivist outlook, authors of the essays include both philosophers and social scientists, and essays tend to focus on matters of philosophical interest embedded in significant contemporary work within a social science. The Oxford handbooks in philosophy are also available in digital format for both individual and institutional use . Summing Up: Recommended. Graduate students and researchers/faculty. R. Hudelson emeritus, University of Wisconsin--Superior