Published: February 2008

This book has a dual orientation. First, it introduces readers to the geneology of sociological theory, linking the latter to philosophical anthropology and historical materialism as well as to the results of its spread. Second, it explores the relationship between sociological theory and politics to the degree that the foundation of social value—and inequality—suggests an essentially political definition of this theory.
This is necessary is one wants to understand predominant perceptions of social value today. This perceptions—and the consequent legalization of social inequalities or hierarchical status quo—is supported by two concets largely outlined by mainstream sociology. These are the concepts of skill or function and the elite. Which theoretical tradition are these concepts rooted in and what assumptions are inherent in their descriptions? The author believes that both questions can be understood, and by extension, answered through the study of the genesis of sociology and the dialectic between social science and its object.

See more on the book at the Readers Guide