Modelos científicos, teoría sociológica y el problema macromicro

Abstract

The methodological relations between natural and social sciences are the object of a renewed
debate within the bosom of the latter. Over the last two decades, evolution in natural science has
produced sufficient signs for us to be able to talk about the emergence of a new paradigm that
would differ from the Newtonian physical science model. From the vantage point of philosopy,
sociological theory and methodology has advocated that such advances in natural science would
have their repercussion on social science. Renate Mayntz carried out research work in the Max
Planck Institute, the principal results of which can be seen in this article. His pessimistic
thinking in respect of the possibilities of a methodological transfer from one sphere to another
does not prevent him from giving a proper evaluation of the sociological research areas where an
effective methodological influence has occurred.