Literature dealing with postmodernism - or with the tension between modernity and postmodernity - has been confined primarily within the domains of philosophy, literature, and the arts. Integrating philosophy and the humanities with sociological theory and research methods, this pioneering volume is one of the first books to address the relevance of postmodernism to the social sciences and to explore the application of postmodern thinking to the study of society. Postmodernism and Social Inquiry will inform sociologists, other social scientists and anyone interested in cultural studies or in other major issues and themes in postmodern inquiry. Written in an accessible, jargon-free style, it is an excellent introduction for advanced undergraduates and graduate students in the social sciences, and for nonacademics seeking an overview of the field.