The Institute claimed single works can reveal as much as whole field studies

Evidence

The other branch of sociological studies has been devoted to various cultural spheres. The Institute works from the hypothesis that an analysis of an individual work of science or art, grounded upon a proper social theory, can frequently provide as deep an insight into the actual structure of society as many field studies conducted with an elaborate staff and resources. Our work in the sociology of art and literature has centered about those writings and artistic productions which are particularly characteristic for the spread of an authoritarian Weltanschauung in Europe. — Rolf Wiggershaus, The Frankfurt School, 915

Categorization

• QUESTION: Worth chasing: did they actually practice this hypothesis, given the chapter’s earlier point that the empirical apparatus functioned as a protective screen?
• XREF: connects to: Single discrete studies confirmed the Orient’s total essential character

Broader Connections

• Single discrete studies confirmed the Orient’s total essential character #corroborates (0.85)