“Pure sociology” is a term that has been used to refer to a theoretical approach within sociology that aims to develop abstract and general principles or laws about social phenomena. It is sometimes contrasted with “applied sociology,” which focuses on using sociological knowledge to address practical problems or inform social policy.

Key aspects of pure sociology include:

1. Abstract Principles: Pure sociology seeks to identify and develop abstract principles or laws that govern social behavior and social structures. It aims to uncover underlying patterns and regularities in social life that are applicable across different contexts and time periods.
2. Theoretical Rigor: Pure sociology emphasizes theoretical rigor and conceptual clarity in the study of social phenomena. It seeks to develop systematic frameworks and models that allow for the precise analysis and explanation of social processes and dynamics.
3. Generalizability: Pure sociology aims to produce knowledge that is generalizable beyond specific empirical cases or contexts. It seeks to uncover universal principles or tendencies that apply to human societies in general, rather than focusing solely on particular historical periods or cultural settings.
4. Theory Building: Pure sociology prioritizes theory building as a central goal of sociological research. It aims to generate new theoretical insights and perspectives that contribute to a deeper understanding of social life and human behavior.
5. Epistemological Considerations: Pure sociology often involves consideration of epistemological questions about the nature of social reality and the methods by which knowledge about society can be acquired. It may involve debates about the relative merits of different philosophical approaches, such as positivism, interpretivism, or critical theory.
6. Critique of Applied Approaches: Some proponents of pure sociology may critique applied sociology for its focus on practical concerns at the expense of theoretical development. They may argue that applied sociology risks sacrificing theoretical rigor and generality in favor of immediate practical relevance.

Overall, pure sociology represents a theoretical orientation within the discipline that prioritizes the development of abstract principles and theoretical frameworks for understanding social phenomena. While applied sociology is concerned with addressing practical problems and informing social interventions, pure sociology seeks to advance knowledge about society in a more abstract and generalizable manner.