Contemporary Sociological Theory

by Craig J. Calhoun

Book Overview

This comprehensive collection of contemporary sociological theory is the definitive guide to current perspectives and approaches in the field, examining key topics and debates in the field.

Collects the most representative material available on topics such as symbolic interactionism, phenomenology, structuralism, network theory, critical theory, feminist theory, and the debates over modernity and postmodernity Includes examinations of the...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0470655666
• ISBN13: 9780470655665
• Release Date: January 2012
• Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell
• Length: 640 Pages
• Weight: 2.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 6.7" x 9.6"

Customer Reviews

key papers of the 20th century

Perhaps the word Contemporary in the title needs some clarification. The papers in the book are not just from the last 10 years, say. Instead, the book aspires to provide some of the seminal papers in sociology, written across the 20th century. To the sociology student, these tracts perhaps form the best expression of how the field developed. Several of the papers relate to and analyse the vast social changes that occurred in the United States during this time; especially in the roles and status of blacks and women. The editors arranged the text in several parts. Often, a part is grouped around a prominent researcher or philosopher, like Foucault, Giddens or Habermas, giving papers written by them. To a lay reader, some chapters may be difficult trudging, as they are geared towards professionals already in the field.