Introducing Sociological Theory

comprehensive, reliable and readable - an engaging and approachable style which does not compromise with precision or accuracy An excellent introductory text.

Professor William Outhwaite, University of Newcastle

... an admirably punchy and pithy introduction to many of the key ways of thinking sociologically about the world. For undergraduate students, or anyone interested in beginning a journey in sociological theory, this text will serve as a welcome and very engaging first step.

Dr Andrew Smith, University of Glasgow

"A distinctive introduction to sociological theory written in an engaging style the different schools of sociological thought are presented and explained in a clear and concise manner." 

Dr Philippa Hall, University of Central Lancashire

Introducing Sociological Theory offers a comprehensive, navigable and highly readable introduction to the main schools of thought in sociology, along with the philosophical ideas that underpin them. 8 broad theoretical traditions, or perspectives, are explained helping you to recognize the scope and range of sociological theory and to think sociologically and see the social world in different ways. The author skilfully and revealingly engages with each theoretical perspective showing what it actually means, why it utilises certain concepts over others, and how it generates and derives from evolving traditions of sociological thought.

Key features

        Covers 8 broad perspectives Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Marxism, Feminism, Exchange Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Ethnomethodology, Structuralism.

        Recognisable examples provide footholds into each perspective, helping you navigate the key ideas.

        Concluding chapter examines the perspectives in relation to more recent developments, themes and debates - structure/agency, post-modernity and globalization.

        Includes clear explanations of key or difficult concepts, and discussions of leading contributors.

        End-of-chapter evaluations revisit core concepts and debates, highlight strengths, weaknesses and omissions for each perspective, and interrogate its use for understanding, interpreting or explaining the complexities of our world.

        Regular photos help bring to life the people and ideas; plentiful summarising tables map the ideas, aid revision and clarify

        Glossary and biographies lists provide a useful reference resource at the end of the book.

Introducing Sociological Theory is an essential text for all sociology students and of key interest more broadly within the social sciences and human...