New Books Network Matt Dawson, "The Political Durkheim: Sociology, Socialism, Legacies" (Routledge, 2023)
Jan 2, 2026
Matt Dawson, a Senior lecturer in sociology at the University of Glasgow, explores the radical aspects of Durkheim's work, revealing his advocacy for socialism. He argues for a rereading of classics to uncover insights often overlooked, particularly in light of feminist and decolonial critiques. Dawson discusses Durkheim's proposals for democratic corporations and education focused on moral responsibility. He even connects Durkheim's ideas to current issues like the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing their relevance in discussions of social justice and economic regulation.
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Recovering A Radical Durkheim
- Matt Dawson discovered a radical, socialist Durkheim while rereading texts and became obsessed with recovering that political reading.
- He wrote The Political Durkheim to assemble essays showing Durkheim as a political sociologist rooted in socialism.
Durkheim Is Continuous, Not Split
- Dawson rejects the sharp split in Durkheim scholarship between an "early" structural Durkheim and a later cultural Durkheim.
- He argues for continuity and for reading Durkheim's political sociology across his works, including Professional Ethics and Civic Morals.
Normative Politics Over Economicism
- Durkheim's political sociology is fundamentally normative: his concepts define how society should be, not just how it is.
- He centers morality over economics and wants politics to debate moral ends rather than prioritize economic growth.