Explanation in Sociology and Coleman’s Diagram
Abstract
Abstract Coleman’s diagram is a visualization of rigorous sociology in line with methodological individualism. In this contribution, I argue for conceiving of the nodes and arrows of the diagram as representing key kinds of assumptions and implications of theory and explanation in sociology. Examples highlighting this perspective on the diagram, as well as various consequences, are discussed. A recurrent theme is that the diagram needs to be distinguished from theory and explanation as such.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Contemporary Sociological Theory and Practice
Critical Realism in Sociology
Social and Cultural Dynamics
Publication details
- Journal / source
- KZfSS Kölner Zeitschrift für Soziologie und Sozialpsychologie
- Publisher
- Springer Science and Business Media LLC
- Volume
- 78
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- 535–560
- Publication date
- 23 January 2026
- Language
- EN