Epistemology, Axiology, and Ideology in Sociology

Abstract

This paper (a) presents a systems framework for conceptualizing epistemological issues in sociology, (b) links this framework to axiological responsibilities, and then (c) .locates both the epistemological and axiological discussions within the patriarchal ideology and hierarchical power structure of American sociology. It is argued that adopting an activist, emancipatory ideological position obligates social scientists to critically review their axiological commitments and epistemological premises. Major arguments are set in italics to permit a quick scan of the paper. These arguments form an epistemological position paper for the closing of the Twentieth Century.