Social theory for beginners

by Paul Ransome

Overview

Treating social theory as an exciting intellectual journey in its own right, this new introductory-level textbook presents the key ideas and concepts in social theory together with an account of the intellectual background from which they emerged. Aimed at first-year undergraduates studying sociology and all related disciplines in the social sciences and humanities, it provides an introduction to the major questions and debates facing social theorists and sociologists. Clearly designed presentation and layout features help readers navigate their way around the material thus giving them the best chance of finding what they need quickly and easily. The book is supported by a companion website, containing additional materials for both students and lecturers using the book, which is available from the link above

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781847426758
Publisher:	Bristol University Press
Publication date:	05/12/2010
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	496
Product dimensions:	6.90(w) x 9.60(h) x 1.30(d)

About the Author

Paul Ransome is a lecturer in sociology, social theory and social research at Swansea University, UK. He has a professional interest in higher education pedagogy and also conducts research into work-life balance.

Table of Contents

Introduction: who is this book for and how do I use it?; What is social theory?; Where did social theory come from?; Émile Durkheim and the coming of industrial society; Karl Marx, capitalism and revolution; Max Weber, rational capitalism and social action; Talcott Parsons, functionalism and the social system; Social interactionism and the real lives of social actors; Western Marxism, Antonio Gramsci and the Frankfurt School; Language, structure, meaning; Discourse and power: post-structuralist social theory; Feminist social theory; Reviving theories of modernity: Habermas, Giddens and Bourdieu; Theories of modernity and post-modernity; Reflexive modernisation: the global dimension and cultural theory; The boundary problem in contemporary social theory.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"The attention paid to the importance of metaphorical and chronological definitions is invaluable to beginners attempting to construct relevant literature around the different time scales in social theory." 2nd Year student in BA Human Geography

"Encyclopaedic in detail but also engaging, balanced, and accessible. Paul Ransome has produced a text of some originality: a beginners' guide that covers every nook and cranny of social thought. I have little doubt that it will prove to be of indispensable use for undergraduates of all levels of study." Shaun Le Boutillier, Anglia Ruskin University

Editorial Reviews

"Very good for students who don't have a social science background" Ros Garrick, Sheffield Hallam

From the Publisher