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The article discusses the concept of a uniquely Canadian form of sociology (CS), with a particular focus on the relationship between CS and the sociology of Canada (SOC). It references the essay "Committing Canadian Sociology" by sociologist Ralph Matthews. The author critiques Matthews's arguments for a distinctive CS, claiming that his approach gives disproportionate weight to idiographic explanations, is not indisputably unique, and may have an adverse effect upon audiences. Topics discussed include the relationship between idiographic and nomothetic explanations, environmental sociology, and resource allocation.

The article looks issues of methodology and Canadian uniqueness in Canadian sociology. It references the essay "Committing Canadian Sociology: Developing a Canadian Sociology and Sociology of Canada" by sociologist Ralph Matthews. According to the author, Matthews overstates the importance of Canadian uniqueness while neglecting the significant role of theoretical pluralism in the field of sociology. It is suggested that Canadian sociology should remain globally oriented and should engage with both American and European intellectual traditions.

This article offers a framework for developing a sociology of human rights using social movements to understand local rights cultures. The idea of human rights has historically been highly statist, but grass-roots activism has been at the heart of the most profound human rights advances in Canada. The article also raises questions about the current state of sociological writing about Canada. The author contends that there is a serious lack of engagement among English and French sociologists, and too few scholars provide genuine 'national' studies. Moreover, restrictive access to information legislation represents a serious obstacle to academic research in Canada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]