Abstract

Based on a passage from the book Sociology in a New Key, in which Helmut Staubmann outlines a semantic reconstruction of the concept of aesthetics in its theoretical-sociological relevance, this paper presents some developments intended to complement Staubmann. I explore fundamentally different meanings of aesthetics, in particular those cultivated within idealist aesthetics in the context of theoretical philosophy. By highlighting key elements in the shift from this aesthetic tradition to classical social theory, specifically the expansion of the sensible realm, the enhanced cognitive aspect of the particular-sensible, and the formulation of distinct forms of intelligibility, this text endeavors to introduce a fresh layer to Staubmann’s analytical framework. It aims to assemble essential components for establishing a perspective on interpreting the diachronic evolution of sociological analysis. This perspective holds the potential to contribute to future projects focused on systematically redefining social theory.