Sociology, liberalism andthe historicity of conduct

The paper considers the bearing that Foucault's philosophical researches might have upon the discipline of historical sociology. It is argued that Foucault's contribution is indeed wide-ranging and fecund, but does not reduce to a clear set of methodological or substantive directives. His work can br used better in thede-dramatization of existing concerns rather than in the construction of new dogmas. These matters are considered in relation to the analysis of liberal government, the critique of ‘modernity’ and the historical sociology ethics and person-formation.