A Pragmatist Approach to Comparison and Causality in Historical Sociology

• In Event: 1113 - Epistemology, Theory, and Method in Comparative Historical Sociology

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a different approach to three recurrent concerns in the epistemology, theory and method of comparative-historical sociology, namely: (1) how to construct and think about comparisons between cases, and (2) what understanding of causality can inform such comparisons, and thus (3) how think reflexively about the knowledge claims that result from historical comparison. We draw on an understanding of human action as conduct, based in the writings of John Dewey. Conduct occurs in an arc between reflexive understanding and habit, and it involves meaningful communication; this introduces a particular set of problems for the historical sociologist as an investigator of conduct, but also certain advantages and possibilities. We focus on the way in which the investigator uses counterfactuals, and constructs a comparative argument in relationship to a background set of concerns, including normative concerns. We draw on several classic studies in historical sociology to make our argument—most prominently, W.E.B. Du Bois’ Black Reconstruction in America.

Authors

• Isaac Ariail Reed, University of Virginia

• Paul R. Lichterman, University of Southern California