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Two Methods in Search of a Substance

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Sociological Research Methods
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Abstract

I am perturbed about present developments in American sociology which seem to foster the growth of both narrow, routine activities, and of sect–like, esoteric ruminations. While on the surface these two trends are dissimilar, together they are an expression of crisis and fatigue within the discipline and its theoretical underpinnings. I shall attempt to express bluntly certain of my misgivings and alarms about these recent trends in our common enterprise; let the chips fall where they may.

Non–exclusive permission to reprint the following material: Lewis A. Coser, ‘Presidential Address: Two Methods in Search of a Substance’, American Sociological Review, vol. 40 (1975) pp. 691–700.

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© 1984 Palgrave Macmillan, a division of Macmillan Publishers Limited

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Coser, L.A. (1984). Two Methods in Search of a Substance. In: Bulmer, M. (eds) Sociological Research Methods. Palgrave, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-17619-9_19

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