Action Sociology

Philosophers, social scientists and sociologists have spoken about action or social action. In Hindu philosophy, the concepts of Karma and Dharma indicate the type of action desired. Social action theory began with the work of Max Weber. Talcott Parson’s theory of social action is based on his concept of society. Vilfredo Pareto spoke of non-logical actions. The foremost practitioner of social action was Mahatma Gandhi and in Dr Bindeshwar Pathak, we have an action sociologist who is also an expert in theoretical sociology. Action sociology is the core of Dr Bindeshwar Pathak’s philosophy. The book presents Dr Pathak’s concept of Action Sociology and gives a glimpse of his actions. His idea of Action Sociology is much wider and goes far beyond the limits of ‘Applied Sociology’ and ‘Sociology in Action’. It aims at sociologist’s intervention to shape the process of social change. While discussing the concept of Social Action, the book also takes into account the actions initiated by Dr Pathak in the realm of sanitation, liberation of scavengers, education, upliftment of the widows, inter-caste marriages etc. The book also gives the theoretical perspectives and scientific methods in Action Sociology. After examining the writings of Dr Pathak, the book compares the views of Dr Pathak with that of Mahatma Gandhi in the area of sanitation, non-violence, caste system, removal of untouchability, status of women etc.