The local organization of literary and rhetorical features in sociological arguments

Abstract

This thesis is concerned with some features of natural language in sociological argument and the implications of the presence of such features in such arguments for the satisfaction of the arguments. Part I describes some 'troubles' that natural language can occasion scientific methodology in research settings. It looks specifically at the damage to finality and uniqueness in questionnaire and interview interpretation. Part II describes four ways in which natural language may facilitate sociological arguments! by presentation devices; in display of author as credible; in transfer of materials in citation and in the invocation of common sense. It is suggested, then that natural language acts as a 'trouble' and a resource, the resource possibly repairing the trouble.