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VOL. 12, ISSUE 1 (2026)
The pluralistic character of sociological theory: A conceptual review
Authors
Soumen Das, Anindita Chatterjee
Abstract
Sociology has
developed as a discipline marked by profound theoretical plurality rather than
by a single unified framework. This paper examines the meaning and nature of
this plurality by drawing primarily on the analytical framework. It argues that
theoretical diversity in sociology arises from systematic differences in
subject matter, underlying assumptions, methodological orientations, and
intellectual objectives. By engaging with macro-meso-and micro-level analyses,
the paper demonstrates how sociological theories focus on different dimensions
of social reality, ranging from large-scale structures and institutions to
organizations, groups, and everyday interactions. It further shows that
divergent assumptions about social order, human agency, and knowledge
production generate methodological diversity and varied goals such as
explanation, interpretation, critique, and social change. Far from representing
theoretical weakness, the paper concludes that plurality is an intellectual
necessity that enables sociology to address the complexity and
multi-dimensionality of social life.
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Pages:151-155
How to cite this article:
Soumen Das, Anindita Chatterjee "The pluralistic character of sociological theory: A conceptual review". International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research, Vol 12, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 151-155
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