Sociological Theory - A Contemporary View: How to Read, Criticize and Do Theory (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781610270526)

A pithy and clear guide to the process of creating and evaluating theory in the social sciences. Using a simple model of theory creation and assessment--and applying it in depth to foundational and still-relevant social and economic theorists such as Durkheim, Marx and Parsons--Neil Smelser shows the way to a better understanding of what social theory is supposed to accomplish and how it can be read critically. First appearing in 1971 as a monograph drawn from his undergraduate class on sociological theory, Dr. Smelser's how-to book is now presented in modern format and with his timeless examples and explanations. Featuring a new Preface by the author, as well as a new Foreword by Arlie Russell Hochschild, this book makes understanding the insides of a theoretical framework as clear as such a daunting feat can credibly be accomplished. Useful for students and researchers learning the tools to read all sorts of theory in a critical manner, its republication and new presentation bring Dr. Smelser's legendary course on social theory to a new generation. Part of the Classics of the Social Sciences Series from Quid Pro Books.

Author: Arlie Russell Hochschild, Neil J. Smelser
ISBN-10: 1610270525
ISBN-13: 9781610270526
Publisher: Quid Pro, LLC
Language: English
Published: 02/18/2011
Pages: 156
Format: Paperback
Weight: 0.41lbs
Size: 8.50h x 5.50w x 0.33d