Paradigmatic frameworks of sociological reflection of values: a theoretical and methodological systematisation
The article presents a comparative review and systematisation of the principal theoretical and methodological frameworks of sociological knowledge concerning the conceptualisation of values. The concept of “value” is examined through two groups of metaparadigms – classical and non-classical (along with their contemporary modifications). The axiomatic cores of the classical, neoclassical, post-classical, non-classical, and post-non-classical metaparadigms are analysed, which makes it possible to reconstruct the historical evolution of epistemological approaches to the phenomenon of values. The cognitive potential of the micro-, meso-, macro-, and mega-levels of sociological analysis in the study of axiological spaces is also demonstrated. The key tendencies shaping contemporary theoretical discourse in this field are delineated: the growing convergence between objectivist and subjectivist traditions; the intensification of both internal and external interdisciplinarity prompted by recent methodological turns; and the broadening of methodological capacities for the sociological study of values through the combined use of quantitative, qualitative, visual, and discursive methods. A further assumption is proposed regarding the potential emergence of transdisciplinary approaches as a prospective direction in the continued evolution of scientific (sociological) knowledge. Emphasis is placed on the organic unity of theoretical premises and empirical research methods, as well as on the applicability of theory and methodological triangulation in studies of values. It is additionally noted that aligning diverse theoretical models of values with relevant empirical strategies constitutes an important step towards developing an integrated conceptual foundation for their sociological investigation. Based on the conducted generalisations, three dimensions of the theoretical analysis of values are distinguished: the paradigmatic-strategic, the analytical (level-based), and the processual-tactical. In addition, a structured analytical framework is proposed to guide sociologists, in aligning theoretical positioning, levels of analysis, and methodological approaches to the study of values.
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