The Sociology of Georg Simmel

Abstract

Simmel's first published study is examined for its current relevance to the sociological study of music. It is found to be rich in suggestions for research while it does not present a coherent theoretical scheme or program for the sociology of music. Simmel's empirical exam- ples, however, suggest that key areas for this discipline are (1) the social meanings which are represented and expressed in music, and (2) the position and function of music in society. Implications for a theory of taste groups on the basis of. differential socializationi are suggested.