This volume offers a new and distinct multicultural approach to the philosophy of social science. In providing a complete introductory overview of the nature of social inquiry, Fay explores issues inherent in the study of human beings from the perspective of cultural and social difference.Among the important topics explored are: the self and its relation to others: culture and society: rationality and intelligibility: relativism and objectivity: and the relation of history to social science.Although the book appropriates insights from hermeneutics, poststructuralism, and critical theory, in addition to the analytic philosophy of social science, it is written in a clear non-technical style. It provides the ideal text for students in the philosophy of social science, for those engaged in social science, and for those interested in multiculturalism. (Bookdata)