`This is an excellent introduction to classical social theory. For most students it is the only book on the subject that they will need. The expositions are clear and comprehensive, outlining with almost alarming clarity ideas with which many of us have to struggle' - Alan Bryman, The Management Centre, University of Leicester
This is a thoroughly revised, expanded version of the best selling student text in classical social theory. The book provides an authoritative, accessible undergraduate guide to the three pivotal figures in the classical tradition. Readable and stimulating, the book explains the key ideas of these thinkers and situates them in their historical and philosophical contexts. The student gains an immediate understanding of what is distinctive and relevant about these giants of sociology.
The book includes a glossary with over 150 entries. For a decade, the book has been required reading on undergraduate degree programmes. This new edition, refines the material, extends the analysis and enhances our appreciation. It is a nugget in its field.
PART ONE: INTRODUCTION
The Origins and Foundations of Modern Social Theory: 1750-1920
Modern Social Theory Defined
The Central Subject Matter of Social Theory
PART TWO: KARL MARX
The Historical Context of Karl Marx's Work
The Shift to Materialism
The German Ideology
Marx's Economic Works: 1850-1867
Capital Volume One, Part A
Economic and Social Elements of Capitalism
Capital Volume One, Part B
The Theory of Value
Capital Volume One, Part C
Theory of Surplus Value
Capital Volume One, Part D
The Genesis of Capitalism
Theory of Alienation
Marx's Theory of Alienation and the 1844 Manuscripts
Marx's Political Writings
Marx's Dialectical View of History
The Theory of Development
PART THREE: EMILE DURKHEIM
The Historical Context of Emile Durkheim's Work
The Division of Labor in Society
The Rules of Sociological Method
Durkheim's Study of Suicide
The Elementary Form of the Religious Life
PART FOUR: MAX WEBER
The Historical Context of Max Weber's Work
Weber's Theoretical Perspective and Fundamental Themes in His Work
The Theme of Capitalism in Weber's Work
Weber's Theory of Class, Status and Party
Weber's Concept of the Status Group
The Separation of Status from Class
The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism
Weber's Methodology and the Theory of Knowledge in the Social Sciences
The Theory of Legitimate Domination
Weber's Political Writings
Weber's Study of Bureaucracy
