Summary
Contents
Subject index
From the team that brought you the bestselling Understanding Classical Sociology (SAGE Publications, 1995), we now have a companion volume dealing with the modern period of social theory. An introductory chapter situates the reader in the main changes in society and sociology following the classic period. This is then followed by separate chapters giving a detailed account of four perspectives that are regarded to be of seminal importance - Functionalism, Critical Theory, Structuralism and Symbolic Interactionism. All of the popular features of Understanding Classical Sociology are reproduced in this book: · Clarity of exposition and criticism· A passion for the importance and relevance of sociological reasoning and explanation· A commitment to treat social theory as a living tradition of thought In addition, the volume comes with a variety of pedagogic aids including summary points and key definitions to facilitate learning and study.This is a book that enhances the sociological imagination. It draws on the authors deep understanding and experience of teaching the subject over many decades. It will be welcomed by lecturers as a vital new teaching and research aid, and students will be stimulated and enriched by the unfussy and reliable advice on doing sociology that it imparts.
The Frankfurt School and Critical Theory
The Frankfurt School and Critical Theory
Beginning Chapter Three
Critical Theory represents a re-emergence of European social theory in response to what was seen as the conservative ideological character of functionalism. It drew upon revisions of Marx and Weber to develop a critical stance against modern society and its social and political thought. The chapter includes discussion of:
- central themes of Critical Theory: alientation, rationalisation and the tragedy of culture;
- capitalism, culture and the nature of social inquiry;
- the critique of the culture of capitalism and modernity;
- the attack on positivism;
- the resurgence of the critique of culture.
The authors who have collectively come to be described as the Frankfurt School were, in fact, a varied collection of intellectuals and researchers whose works covered a wide range ...
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