Variations sur la systématique mertonienne de la théorie sociologique

Abstract

The status and the functions of sociological theory are inevitable topics of discussion within the discipline. This is not surprising, since the scientificity of sociology is at stake, as well as its aspiration to become generalized and unified as a science. This article seeks to address this problem on the basis of the proposals made by Robert K. Merton, which are still highly relevant today. The “systematic” perspective that the sociologist introduced in Social Theory and Social Structure (1949) enables one to evaluate theoretical claims and stimulates a form of reflexivity. It also renews the exercise of theoretical interpretation, without falling into the cult of theory estranged from empirical work. Finally, this approach draws attention to cumulativeness in the process of ordering the knowledge about society. Systematizing systematics is therefore the path we propose to follow here, without hiding the difficulties that such an undertaking inevitably raises.

Keywords

• sociological theory
• history of sociology
• systematics
• epistemology of social sciences