Genetic approach to history of sociology in Russia

Abstract

The article considers the problem of the origin and development of social attitudes in Russia. The main methodological aspects of consideration of the history of sociology are presented. The differences in the understanding of the genetic approach of modern historians of Russian sociology are demonstrated. The main aim of the paper is the analysis of the concept of “the genesis of sociology”. It noted the specificity of Western European genesis of sociology. The article presents the views of Russian historians of sociology on its early origins in Russia. Possible genetic primary sources of sociology in Russia are enumerated. Principal attention is paid to clarifying the views of those Russian thinkers who, in the modern history of Russian sociology, are attributed to the predecessors of Russian sociology. Those whom Russian historians of sociology consider to be predecessors of sociology in Russia, their professional and ideological orientation are presented listed. Criteria are proposed, according to which it is necessary to determine those who can be recognized as the forerunners of sociology in Russia. It is suggested that not all of the Russian sociologists, and even those who were familiar with foreign positivist sociology, referred to as predecessors, should be referred to as sociologists. An indicator of the genesis of sociology in Russia and the beginning of its institutionalization is the appearance of publications of works, in the name of which the terms: “sociology” or “sociological” are used. In conclusion, the methodological and didactic significance of the study of the genesis of sociology in Russia is noted, and its two main trends are identified. Refs 28.