The Rules of Sociological Method: And Selected Texts on Sociology and its Method

Considered a landmark work when it was first published in 1895, The Rules of Sociological Method represents Emile Durkheim’s manifesto for sociology. He argues forcefully for the objective, scientific, and methodological underpinnings of sociology as a discipline and establishes guiding principles for future research.

With a substantial new introduction by the leading Durkheim scholar Steven Lukes, the book explains and sets into context Durkheim’s argument. The still-controversial debates about The Rules of Sociological Method’s six chapters are examined and their relevance to present-day sociology is discussed. The edition also includes Durkheim’s subsequent thoughts on method in the form of articles, debates with scholars from other disciplines, and letters.

This is an essential resource for students and scholars hoping to deepen their understanding of one of the pioneering voices in modern sociology and twentieth-century social thought.