Abstract

BIALAKOWSKY, Alejandro  and  ALVAREZ RUIZ, Fermín. Fundamental (re)classificatory tensions in the work of Saint-Simon. Rev. Pilquen. secc. cienc. soc. [online]. 2020, vol.23, n.4, pp.117-131. ISSN 1851-3123.

This article addresses how Saint-Simon´s work unfolds certain (re)classification strategies to account for the characteristics that organize and divide the actors in French society in crisis at the beginning of the nineteenth century. A series of theoretical-analytical tensions cross and link these (re)classification strategies. This implies an approach through two interconnected levels. On the one hand, we focus on the analysis of certain (re)classifications at different moments in his work: the logic of domination, by possession -or not- of property or knowledge; the forms of activity (industrial activity or useless activity), which legitimize the government or administration; the nationality of those who carry out these activities (" true French" or invaders); and the conditions of existence (poor or rich). Each of these sociological (re)classifications implies both a central conflict between different social groups and a political proposal for their overcoming. On the other hand, we analyze how each of Saint-Simon´s (re)classification strategies implies a theoretical-analytical tension: between the unequal distribution of knowledge in society and domination; between the " useless classes" in capitalism and pre-industrial activities; between social classes and the nation; and between the social issues and politics. In a section for each of them, we analyse the first three, combining them with certain controversies and re-readings. So, we trace a link between these theoretical-analytical tensions since Saint-Simon elaborates a new (re)classification strategy to " answer" each previous tension. In turn, each new (re)classification strategy involves both another social conflict between the groups that this (re)classification delimits and another proposal for overcoming these conflicts. Finally, as a conclusion, we focus on the theoretical-analytical tension between the science addressing social issues and politics. This allows us to take up the first three above-mentioned since the latter crosses them.

Keywords : Saint-Simon; Sociological Theory; Reclassifications; Political intervention.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )