Description
Book SynopsisLeon J. Goldstein critically examines the philosophical role of concepts and concept formation in the social sciences. The book undertakes a study of concept formation and change by looking at four critical terms in anthropology (kinship), politics (parliament and the general will), and sociology (individualism).
Trade ReviewThese essays represent the mature reflections of a genuinely unique philosopher of history. Goldstein's sensitivity to the special challenges of historical knowledge lead him to unfold the tensions and openness of the concepts that define such knowing. Taken together, these essays represent a sustained effort to save - and to respect - the difficult knowledge that belongs to, and can come from, history. The introduction and foreword do a wonderful job of presenting Goldstein's very real contributions. -- Dennis J. Schmidt, Pennsylvania State University
An extremely rich and challenging series of studies, ranging from seminal issues in traditional political theory to some of the most vexing epistemological problems in contemporary philosophy. This posthumous volume of Leon Goldstein's essays is an apt and loving monument to his erudition, wisdom and humanity. -- Shlomo Avineri, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Table of ContentsForeword, Vincent M. Colapietro Introduction. Conceptual Tension and Social Science Research: The Legacy of Leon J. Goldstein, David Schultz Chapter 1. Conceptual Tension: The Open Texture of the Language of Kinship Chapter 2. Conceptual Tension: Individualism and Non-Individualism Once Again Chapter 3. Thinking the General Will Chapter 4. Reflections on Parliament as an Open Concept
