Methodology of theoretical research programs: comparative advantages for an analysis of scientificknowledge dynamics
The paper discusses some issues of selection, comparison and evaluation of relevant methodology for scientific knowledge dynamics analysis. Postpositivist metatheoretical discourse within sociological theory has been predominantly concerned with contrasting approaches to science studies developed by Kuhn and Lakatos with some sociological projects (Mullins, Bloor, Foucault). «Theoretical research programs» methodology suggested by Berger, Zelditch and Wagner provides us with many benefits and advanced features which can be demonstrated when applied to a history of sociology of science. «Theoretical research programs» methodology responds to questions of theory evaluation, illuminates the ways the theories can be clustered, describes social and rational aspects of their development, and reveals indicators of theory progress