Working knowledge : making the human sciences from Parsons to Kuhn /

Isaac (history of modern political thought, Cambridge) presents a far-ranging, groundbreaking, cogent, and intellectually stimulating account of the making of the "human sciences" during the middle years of the 20th century. The work exemplifies the best traditions of the history, philosophy, and social studies of the social sciences and humanities. Although the institutional setting is Harvard University, the analysis of the development of sociology, social relations, psychology, philosophy, and the philosophy of sciences has implications beyond that setting. In a masterful stroke, Isaac demonstrates the intellectual connections among such diverse scholars as L. J. Henderson, T. Parsons, B. F. Skinner, W. V. O. Quine, and T. Kuhn. Hence, the subtitle, Making the Human Sciences from Parsons to Kuhn. The title, Working Knowledge, is meant to convey the notion that knowledge in the human sciences is made in a craft-like manner similar to that of other professions and sciences. The concept "interstitial academy" is the key to understanding developments at Harvard and elsewhere, referring to enclaves in which ideas can be exchanged and research explored outside established departments and curricula. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Advanced students and faculty/scholars. M. Oromaner formerly, Hudson County Community College