Garfinkel and Ethnomethodology

by John Heritage

The writings of Harold Garfinkel have had a major impact on the social sciences and linguistics. This book offers a systematic and innovative analysis of his theories and of the ethnomethodological movement which he has inspired.
It is the only full-length study focused on the writings of Harold Garfinkel and will be essential reading for all those concerned with understanding and evaluating one of the most radically original social scientists of recent times.

Genres: Sociology

344 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1984

Reviews

[Steven]

Nearly four decades since it was published, this book remains the finest study of Garfinkel's seminal ideas. It locates Garfinkel within the history of 20th century social thought, and explicates what was so innovative about his view of the role of sense-making in the conduct of social life. The many ramifications of Garfinkel's ideas - for our understanding of social action, the import of norms and rules, natural language use, accounts and accountability, institutional realities, and more - are developed. The discussion throughout is exceedingly sophisticated yet lucid and accessible, with a level of narrative drive that's rare in a work of social science scholarship.

[Jan D]

Easiest to read introduction to ethnomethodology I have found so far (except Abels’ introductions in German, which are also excellent)

[Robin]

the classic. impeccably well written. changed my life.