Classical Sociological Theory

A world-class introduction to the historical and continuing impact of classical theoryon sociological debate

The latest edition ofClassical Sociological Theoryoffersstudents a definitive guide to thetheoreticalfoundationsof sociology and the continuing impact ofthe ideas explored byearlytheorists, includingMarx, Durkheim, Weber, Mead, Simmel, Freud, Du Bois, Adorno, Marcuse, Parsons, and Merton.The prestigious editorshave integrated several readingsonthe most influential theoriesarising out of the Enlightenment era and the work of de Tocqueville.

Readers are introduced to seminal works in classical sociological theoryby way of editorial introductions that lend historical and intellectual perspectiveto the included readings.The readings themselveshave been selected based on their combinations of theoretical sophistication andaccessibility.From analyses ofself and society to examinations of critical theory and structural-functional analysis,Classical Sociological Theoryremainsthe gold standard inclassical theoryreaders.

The Fourth Edition of thiswidely taughtbook includes:

• Selections that trace the history of classical sociological theory, from its undisciplined roots to its modern influence on contemporary sociological debate
• Readings describing the “pre-history” of sociology, including ideas from the Enlightenment and de Tocqueville
• Editorial introductions that place selected works firmly in their intellectual, philosophical, and historical contexts for the benefit ofthe student
• A distinguished and scholarly team of editorswith a wideand deeprange ofexpertise

Perfect for undergraduate and graduate studentsof socialand sociologicaltheory,ClassicalSociological Theoryis also a thought-provokingresource ideal foruse in courses taught in human geography, anthropology, criminology, and urban studies programs.

Keywords:

Sociological debate, sociological theory, sociology theory, classical sociology, classic sociology, classic sociology readings,  Tocqueville, marx, engels, Durkheim, weber, structural-functional, critical theory,  classical theory in sociology