Introduction. The article considers the issue of the basis and principles of the work of the method of sociology in the system of sciences of society as such. Basic conditions for the existence and functioning of scientific rationality are formulated. It is proposed to solve the problem of finding common conditions for the construction of private methods of certain disciplines that explore social processes and phenomena by using the Hegel conceptual matrix of distinguishing between "concrete" and "abstract," as well as turning to interdisciplinary studies, philosophy and history of science. Methods. On the material of methodological principles put forward by both classics of domestic and foreign sociology (Comte, Durkheim, Weber, etc.), and modern social thinkers (Habermas, Mead, etc.), the features and differences of the methodological foundation of natural and social sciences are characterized. Results. It is concluded that modern sociology needs to turn to the issues of finding the methodological basis of social sciences in philosophy and the history of science, and thus the interdisciplinary nature of solving scientific problems is actualized, among which the key ones are the problem of developing the habitat and measures of human attitude to the realities of one's existence.