Year: 2012
Type: article
Abstract: Luhmann’s theory is grounded in the tradition of sociological functionalism. Even though Luhmann refers to philosophy, there are no specific references to philosophical functionalism. Philosophical functionalism, on the other hand, does not take notice of Luhmann’s theory either. This article relates sociological and philosophical functionalism to each other. It argues that Luhmann’s so-called equivalence functionalism does not only fit into philosophical functionalism. Moreover, it helps to solve the problem of a functional reduction of theories, by means of which causal explanations can be found.
Author: Gerhard Wagner
Language: French
Subfield: History and Philosophy of Science
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W1557000334