The Rules of Sociological Method
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The Rules of Sociological Method is a seminal work by Émile Durkheim, a founding figure of sociology. Published in 1895, the book outlines Durkheim's approach to studying society scientifically.123
Durkheim argued that "social facts"—such as laws, morals, and institutions—should be treated as objective realities, distinct from individual consciousness. He emphasized the importance of empirical research and rigorous methodology in sociology, aiming to establish it as a legitimate scientific discipline. His work provided a framework for analyzing social phenomena objectively, moving beyond mere speculation.123
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