The Ambivalence of Space in Simmel

This article explores the ontological nuances of space in Simmel`s sociology. We have demonstrated how two different conceptions of space coexist in Simmel’s social thought. By reviewing his “sociology of space”, we have traced a Newton-Kantian absolute space in Simmel’s thought; while through investigating his social ontology, exemplified in concepts of sociation, social interaction, significance of number for social life, we have demonstrated how this ontology presumes a relational space. Excavating these two seemingly paradoxical notions of space, we have tried to find a resolution to this ambivalence. We have come to the conclusion that this ambivalence is generated by two different explanatory devices that Simmel uses to illustrate social life.