Tracing the impact of The Polish Peasant… – from rural sociology to migration studies

Abstract

Abstract This paper consists of two sections. Firstly, it will recall the work of William I. Thomas and Florian Znaniecki and their successors. Thoughts published in this section will attempt to show how their methodological and theoretical heritage contributed to the development of sociology. Furthermore, it will show how their work, with alternate fortune and undeniable fame, inspired researchers for 100 years. Secondly, it will present significance of Thomas and Znaniecki heritage in the development of migration studies in addition to offering an essential overview of the contemporary migration issue. The article deliberates on the validity, topicality and current reception of methodology and theory proposed by Thomas and Znaniecki.