An exploration of the relationship between social science and philosophy, and the range of problems that have attended this relationship. The author argues that social science has turned to philosophy in search of cognitive identity and the grounds for normative and empirical judgement.

In this insightful book, distinguished political scientist John G. Gunnell explores the relationship between social science and philosophy, and the range of problems that have attended this relationship. Gunnell argues that social science has turned to philosophy, especially to areas such as the philosophy of science and other sites of philosophical foundationalism, in search of cognitive identity and the grounds for normative and empirical judgment. Gunnell's emphasis is on political and social theory and the theoretical constitution of social phenomena.