A Commentary on Allan and Turner. Sailing in Postmodern Winds: Formal Methods in Uncertain Worlds

Kenneth Allan and Jonathan Turner's article, “A Formalization of Postmodern Theory,” is a wonderful example of intellectual courage and honesty. They seek to subject selected theories associated with postmodernism to the rule of formal theory construction. Their article is a rare instance of scientific regard for ideas too often dismissed by those who have not the least idea what they are about. Allan and Turner, by contrast, understand their subject very well Their method is careful and compelling. Yet, if there is such a thing as a postmodern world, it may be one unready to submit to formal analysis. The resistance of the postmodern to formal methods is discussed with specific reference to culture and the idea of the subject. Whatever one may think of their argument, Allan and Turner have set a very high standard for respectful behavior among sociologists—a standard that prevails but rarely these days.