This book deals with the ontology and epistemology of sociology in the realm of social science. While sociology denotes the science of society, there is also a distinctive body of knowledge called social science. It is necessary, therefore, to specify the role of sociology under the aegis of social science and to understand how sociology as a specialization forms a mutually exclusive part of a complex whole, namely, the social sciences as a system. This, then, is the subject mater of systemic sociology.

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Viewed thus, systemic sociology is concerned with (a) the nature of being a society (i.e., its ultimate substance); and (b) the nature, sources and limits of knowledge with regard to society. The author discuses the disintegration of the joint family in India and the emergence of Bangladesh and uses them as examples to engage with the abstractions of systemic sociology.

He then deals with the ontology of sociology in the light of the nature of social reality examining interaction, social action, social behaviour, social relationships, social institutions and social groups.

Professor Mukherjee proceeds to discuss epistemological questions such as the nature of the distinctions and the interrelations among the so-called social science 'disciplines'. In the concluding chapter he addresses issues relating to the appraisal (and not merely the understanding) of society, as this is the specific task of sociology.

Invaluable reading for teachers and students of sociology, anthropology and social research methods, this book will also interest all those engaged in the study of the social sciences as a body of knowledge.