Generation as a Sociological Problem

摘要: For many millenia, in cultures around the world, concept of generation has prospered. Its privileged place Western societies is reflected its codification Bible, while most disparate Africa, Asia and Australia have incorporated generational their notions social order. It no surprise that idea should come into prominent use sociology, just as so other terms been preempted from popular to scientific vocabulary. was perhaps also inevitable this transformation folk analytical usage would occasion considerable conceptual confusion. The term's mulivocality, a virtue discourse, became liability science. In review, I identify sources confusion sociological "generation" examine recent literature. Though others identified problems with concept, strictures thus far had only limited effect. important future research, but progress can be made if an acceptable definition employed usages are abandoned. Here my focus methodological. do not attempt comprehensive review substantive findings, though bibliography useful those interested pursuing specific inter­ ests. Along literature, closely related works by psychologists, political scientists, anthropologists. first diversity meanings attributed discuss intellectual heritage bequeathed contemporary sociology. literature past dozen years, identifying areas concep-