ABSTRACT
The development of theories in social sciences and humanities are influenced by debates on the unit of analysis. One key of the debate is about whether scientific investigation should be based upon a micro-level analysis (individual unit) or a macro-level analysis (sui generis). This methodological debate originated in the contraposition between Max Weber and Emile Durkheim in the late 19th century. The debate centred on the atomistic methodology vis-à-vis holistic methodology. In contrast to theory as a system of description that contains truth/falsity parameter, methodology is more about an open choice in scientific inquiry. Hence, the chosen methodology determines the possible theoretical outputs. This paper will use an analytical approach to discuss the unit of an analysis in social science methodology. It aims to demonstrate the theoretical implications that may result from the debate.
