Social Existence: Metaphysics, Marxism, and the Social Sciences

This exciting, ambitious work attempts to rework into the body of social science concerns that are now more often associated with philosophy. Richard Quinney presents a new paradigm, one that draws on metaphysics and Marx. Does a modern capitalist society require an irreligious, secular spirit to justify exploitation? Quinney believes the division between the secular and the sacred approaches, both of which divide the world into social life and spiritual life, is collapsing. This book is nothing less than an attempt to integrate the two.

′...it deserves to be read; and its chapter notes, alone, are rich evidence of useful reading.′ -- Contemporary Sociology, Vol 13 No 1, January 1984

′Quinney may not acquire disciples but he may well inspire sociologists to undertake a more reflective and critical reconsideration of their own intellectual development and their basic premises.′ -- Contemporary Crises, April 1984