Social Theory in the Face of the Future

Abstract

This book has argued that we can identify dominant social structures (here: ‘orders’) and how they interrelate in the global North and for two major developing societies. It is now time to draw the argument together to show how the various limits of these social structures determine social development. Before we do so, it is worth considering whether there are any intrinsic limitations to social theory itself — after all, ‘limits’ could imply that there are constraints not just on social change, but also on what knowledge can contribute to analysing it. One question that is raised immediately in this connection is whether social science should be driven by problems. This idea is in keeping with the conception of science that has been put forward here, which revolves around science as a means of intervening in the world. Alternatively, if a philosophical or normative justification for focusing on problem-solving is preferred, we might adduce Popper’s view of science whereby knowledge should devote itself first and foremost to eliminating suffering or social ills (see Magee 1973: esp. 84–6). From these scientific and philosophical perspectives, what problems should social theory address?