The exploration of the social conditions that facilitate or retard the search for scientific knowledge has been the major theme of Robert K. Merton's work for forty years. This collection of papers [is] a fascinating overview of this sustained inquiry. . . . There are very few other books in sociology . . . with such meticulous scholarship, or so elegant a style. This collection of papers is, and is likely to remain for a long time, one of the most important books in sociology.--Joseph Ben-David, New York Times Book ReviewThe novelty of the approach, the erudition and elegance, and the unusual breadth of vision make this volume one of the most important contributions to sociology in general and to the sociology of science in particular. . . . Merton's Sociology of Science is a magisterial summary of the field.--Yehuda Elkana, American Journal of Sociology
Merton's work provides a rich feast for any scientist concerned for a genuine understanding of his own professional self. And Merton's industry, integrity, and humility are permanent witnesses to that ethos which he has done so much to define and support.--J. R. Ravetz, American Scientist
The essays not only exhibit a diverse and penetrating analysis and a deal of historical and contemporary examples, with concrete numerical data, but also make genuinely good reading because of the wit, the liveliness and the rich learning with which Merton writes.--Philip Morrison, Scientific American
Merton's impact on sociology as a whole has been large, and his impact on the sociology of science has been so momentous that the title of the book is apt, because Merton's writings represent modern sociology of science more than any other single writer.--Richard McClintock, Contemporary Sociology
- ISBN10 0809309254
- ISBN13 9780809309252
- Publish Date 1 October 1979 (first published 31 December 1973)
- Publish Status Active
- Out of Print 24 April 2021
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Southern Illinois University Press
- Format Paperback
- Pages 168
- Language English