There are two points at which I disagree with Kemper's analysis. Different theories deal with different social processes. And, even in developed areas, there may be two or more reasonable competing theories. That we be explicit about our theories and that we try to improve our theories does not require that we all have the same theories. Second, the kind of theories and predictions Kemper suggests are too concrete.
Abstraction is one of the keys to scientific development.
So, I share Professor Kemper's concern for cumulative knowledge in sociology. I don't quite share his image of what that knowledge would look like, nor am I as pessimistic as he is about the evidence of existing cumulative work in the discipline. Be sure to include your name and affiliation. Legitimate requests for anonymity will be honored. The Chronicle maintains Colloquy as an open forum where readers can comment on issues.