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Sociological Theory

Bibliographic Data

ID2202072
AuthorsRobert Κ Merton (corresponding author), Robert K Merton
Year1945
Volume50
Issue6
Pages462-473
Publication date1945-05-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueAmerican Journal of Sociology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0002-9602 • E-ISSN: 1537-5390
PublisherUniversity of Chicago Press (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1086/219686
OpenAlexW4254747780
LanguageEN
Citations received54

The phrase "sociological theory" has been used to refer to at least six types of analysis which differ significantly in their bearings on empirical research. These are methodology, general orientations, conceptual analysis, post factum interpretations, empirical generalizations, and sociological theory. The distinctive limits and functions of each are described and illustrated. A typical case of the incorporation of an empirical generalization into a theoretic system is briefly considered. The conventions of formal derivation and codification are suggested as devices for aiding the integration of theory and empirical research

Empirical research · Epistemology · Generalization · Phrase · Social science · Sociological research · Sociological theory · Sociology · Artificial Intelligence · Computer Science · Contemporary Sociological Theory and Practice · Philosophy

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    Open Access•Elisa L Toman, Joshua C Cochran et al.•Journal of Criminal Justice•2015

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  • Deriving Implications of Comparison Theory for Demographic Phenomena

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Unique citing works54
Citations per year1,02
Citation span1973 - 2025 (53)
Citation velocityrecent
Highly citedNo
Citation typesNeutral: 54
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