Medium range theory
Theories of the middle range (Engl. Middle range theory ) is one of Robert K. Merton been applied in 1962 term for theories that in sociology should be pursued preferred. Merton uses the term to describe the level of abstraction in a theory. For him, medium-range theories stand in contrast to main theories ( total theory , general theory , universal theory , “ grand theories ” or “comprehensive social theories”) and micro theories . Main theories in this sense are comprehensive and coherent theoretical structures.
Merton demands not to strive for "endlessly far-reaching" theories on the model of the classical natural sciences , and also not to strive for theories that are "valid for all societies". Merton argues against this
- (a) that some societies can be examined theoretically and empirically fruitfully over long periods of time , but not always, and
- (b) that the mechanisms of self-fulfilling and self-destroying prophecy prevent one from doing so (cf. his self-fulfilling prophecy ). With that Merton borders in the USA z. B. from the high demands of a Talcott Parsons in the form of his structural functionalism .
If one cannot fulfill this demanding program of 'eternally' valid theories, one should not go to the other extreme, only gather social facts and discuss social problems on a case-by-case basis . In this way Merton distinguishes himself from the sociological training practice of the universities in his country, which is very focused on application and practically despises 'theory'.
Medium Range Theories
Prime examples of insightful "medium-range theories" could
- Max Weber's derivation of European-North American capitalism from the 'spirit' of Protestantism or
- Franz Borkenau derivative of the same social process from the organizational problems for maritime genötigter peoples exit of the mass migration or
- submit the case-based evidence method .
Theories about:
- Reference group (sociology / social psychology)
- Social mobility
- anomie
- Relative deprivation
- Role conflicts
- Care models
literature
- RK Merton: Social Theory and Social Structure . [1949] 1968 (German sociological theory and social structure . 1995)