‘What You Gain Should Be Some Ability to Take the Standpoint of the Other’: An Interview with LSE Director Craig Calhoun

Abstract

In this interview Craig Calhoun discusses the complex relationship between sociology, national traditions and cultural peculiarities. Calhoun points to the tensions and potential contradictions that arise when sociological concepts that were coined at a specific time and refer to a specific place are applied to different conditions and contexts. Other problems come to mind: the dominance of the English-speaking world in academia, issues of cultural domination, even imperialism. The interview closes with suggestions as to how these issues can be addressed practically and the role that a more reflective world sociology can play in solving some of these questions.