Nesting social-analytical perspectives: An approach to macro-social analysis

This paper introduces an approach to macro-social analysis based on the concept of 'nesting' social-analytical perspectives. This approach provides a way to use multiple viewpoints or perspectives together in order to gain deeper systemic insights into whatever social situation is being analysed, whether it be for the pure study of social systems, the development of organisational strategy, or the formulation of policy options. The approach is demonstrated using a set of perspectives to examine aspects of international relations and the history of the world system.