PERESTROIKA AND SOVIET SOCIOLOGY

The significant role of Soviet sociologists in initiating the dual processes of perestroika and glasnost' has provided an unusual example of sociologists actively participating in social change. This article locates this development within longer term changes in the position of sociology in the Soviet Union. Emerging from the post-Stalinist thaw, sociology struggled to emancipate itself from both ideological and political constraints. After phases of expansion and retrenchment, contradictory developments moved towards a possible resolution through active involvement in the processes of critique which led to perestroika. The article concludes with a plea for a positive response to Soviet sociology's wish for assistance and co-operation.