When social knowledge turns mathematical – The role of formalisation in the sociology of time

Abstract

The paper argues that a mathematical approach might contribute to the consolidation of time as an epistemic object, while strengthening the sociology of time as a more influential domain in social sciences. This might be accomplished due to the performative role of mathematical formalisations. Also, it means appropriating the textual reality resulted in formalising processes as a space which researchers act through and upon. Thus, mathematical formalisations should be understood not only as modelling and data processing devices but also as relevant actors in networks of knowledge production. In this context, we reassess the practice of formalisation by proposing a vocabulary through which mathematical language might be used to meaningfully approach the socio-temporal order, with positive consequences in the reinforcement of a scientific community of practice.

The Social Bifurcation of Reality: Symmetrical Construction of Knowledge in Science-Trusting and Science-Distrusting Discourses

“…Quantification, “the production and communication of numbers” ( Espeland and Stevens, 2009 , p. 402) is “a constitutive feature of modern science and social organization” ( idem ). Numbers, statistics, and mathematical models are shaping our lives at many layers ( Matei and Preda, 2019 ). Still, while contemporary societies put great confidence in numbers, there is also systematic skepticism and wariness of “how to lie with statistics” ( Steele, 2005 ).…”

Aplicaciones prácticas de la materia Cálculo en la Sociología para la resolución de problemas reales

“…Del mismo modo, se analizaron las principales aplicaciones prácticas de la materia Cálculo para la resolución de problemas reales, donde se hace énfasis en el área de conocimiento de la Sociología. Con estos resultados coinciden diversos autores consultados en el desarrollo del trabajo como Araque et al (2013), Daniel (2016), Matei & Preda (2019) y Ureña et al (1972).…”

Argumentative time work for legitimizing homeopathy: Temporal reasons for the acceptance of an alternative medical practice

“…Studies of professional legitimation focus on how CAM practitioners appeal to the mainstream medical profession or official authorities for access to resources, statutory self-regulation, and integration in academic or biomedical settings. These efforts may entail adding medical knowledge to the training for CAM therapy, promoting peer-reviewed research or clinical trials, establishing professional standards and qualifications, and introducing CAM practices to academic institutions (Degele, 2005; Freidin, 2017; Givati and Hatton, 2015; Rughiniş et al, 2017; Wahlberg, 2007; Welsh et al, 2004), processes that point to the role of formalizations as performative devices (Matei and Preda, 2018).…”