Phenomenology and social theory

Ferguson, H. (2001) Phenomenology and social theory. In: Ritzter, G. and Smart, B. (eds.) Handbook of Social Theory. Sage: London, pp. 232-248. ISBN 9780761941873; 9780761958406

Abstract

In discussing the fractious relationship between phenomenology and social theory, this chapter argues that a phenomenological social theory has developed. Of particular import is the work of Edmund Husserl. His "intentionality" of consciousness, insight regarding lived experience and the "intuition of essences," and conception of the need for modalization support a phenomenological social theory. Husserl's phenomenology also encompasses the ideas of embodiment, temporality, and intersubjectivity. Despite the relevance of phenomenology to sociological theory, it has been largely ignored by sociologists and social theorists. Meanwhile, Husserl has been criticized by phenomenologists such as Martin Heidegger and Gabriel Marcel. What must be understood by these theorists, however, is that the significance of phenomenology -- rather than its assumptions -- is what must be evaluated.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Keywords: Edmund Husserl, Phenomenology, Sociological Theory.
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Ferguson, Prof Harvie
• Authors: Ferguson, H.
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General); H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Sociology Anthropology and Applied Social Sciences
• Publisher: Sage
• ISBN: 9780761941873; 9780761958406

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