First published in 1895: Emile Durkheims masterful work on the nature and scope of sociologynow with a new introduction and improved translation by leading scholar Steven Lukes.The Rules of the Sociological Method is among the most important contributions to the field of sociology, still debated among scholars today. Through letters, arguments, and commentaries on significant debates, Durkheim confronted critics, clarified his own position, and defended the objective scientific method he applied to his study of humans. This updated edition offers an introduction and extra notes as well as a new translation to improve the clarity and accessibility of this essential work. In the introduction, Steven Lukes, author of the definitive biography Emile Durkheim: His Life and Work, spells out Durkheims intentions, shows the limits of Durkheims view of sociology, and presents its political background and significance. Making use of the various texts in this volume and Durkheims later work, Lukes discusses how Durkheims methodology was modified or disregarded in practiceand how it is still relevant today. With substantial notes on context, this user-friendly edition will greatly ease the task of students and scholars working with Durkheims methoda view that has been a focal point of sociology since its original publication. The Rules of the Sociological Method will engage a new generation of readers with Durkheims rich contribution to the field.