Social Theory For Alternative Societies

Author : Matt Dawson
Publisher : Bloomsbury Publishing
Page : 248 pages
File Size : 47,9 Mb
Release : 2017-09-16
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781137337344

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Social Theory for Alternative Societies by Matt Dawson Pdf

This book traces a unique story of social theory: one which focuses on its role in offering ideas for alternative societies. In charting this story, Matt Dawson argues that the differences in alternatives offered by social theorists not only demonstrate the diversity in, and value of, sociological perspectives, but also emphasize competing ideas of the role of intellectuals in social change. The text discusses a collection of social theorists –from key figures such as Marx, Durkheim and Du Bois to less well known or now commonly overlooked writers such as Levitas, Lefebvre and Mannheim. It explains their use of the tools of sociology to critique society and provide visions for alternatives, highlighting elements of the intellectual backgrounds of movements such as socialism, anti-racism, feminism and cosmopolitanism. Social Theory for Alternative Societies not only explores in detail a variety of thinkers, but also reflects on the relevance of sociology today and on the connection between social theory and the 'real world.' Thus it will be of interest to students of sociology and those interested in ideas for a better society.

Author : Mark L. Wardell,Stephen P. Turner
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 188 pages
File Size : 40,5 Mb
Release : 2014-08-07
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781317650997

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Sociological Theory in Transition (RLE Social Theory) by Mark L. Wardell,Stephen P. Turner Pdf

Current sociological theories appear to have lost their general persuasiveness in part because, unlike the theories of the ‘classical era’, they fail to maintain an integrated stance toward society, and the practical role that sociology plays in society. The authors explore various facets of this failure and possibilities for reconstructing sociological theories as integrated wholes capable of conveying a moral and political immediacy. They discuss the evolution of several concepts (for example, the social, structure, and self) and address the significant disputes (for example, structuralism versus humanism, and individual versus society) that have dominated twentieth-century sociological thought. Their ideas and analyses are directed towards an audience of students and theorists who are coming to terms with the project of sociological theory, and its relationship with moral discourses and political practice. The authors of these essays are sociological theorists from the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. They are all established, but not ‘establishment’ authors. The book contains no orthodoxies, and no answers. However, the essays do contribute to identifying the range of issues that will constitute the agenda for the next generation of sociological theorists.

Author : William Outhwaite,Larry Ray
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 264 pages
File Size : 46,5 Mb
Release : 2008-04-15
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781405137843

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Social Theory and Postcommunism by William Outhwaite,Larry Ray Pdf

Social Theory and Postcommunism undertakes a thorough studyof the implications of post-communism for sociological theory.Written by two leading social theorists, the book discusses thethesis that the fall of communism has decimated alternativeconceptions of social organizations other than capitalism. Analyzes the implications of the fall of communism on socialtheory Discusses alternative ideas of social organizations other thancapitalism, in the wake of the collapse of communism Covers state/civil society, globalization, the future of“modernity,” and post-socialism

Author : Brais X. Currás,Inés Sastre
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 368 pages
File Size : 53,7 Mb
Release : 2019-09-09
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781351012096

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Alternative Iron Ages by Brais X. Currás,Inés Sastre Pdf

Alternative Iron Ages examines Iron Age social formations that sit outside traditional paradigms, developing methods for archaeological characterisation of alternative models of society. In so doing it contributes to the debates concerning the construction and resistance of inequality taking place in archaeology, anthropology and sociology. In recent years, Iron Age research on Western Europe has moved towards new forms of understanding social structures. Yet these alternative social organisations continue to be considered as basic human social formations, which frequently imply marginality and primitivism. In this context, the grand narrative of the European Iron Age continues to be defined by cultural foci, which hide the great regional variety in an artificially homogenous area. This book challenges the traditional classical evolutionist narratives by exploring concepts such as non-triangular societies, heterarchy and segmentarity across regional case studies to test and propose alternative social models for Iron Age social formations. Constructing new social theory both archaeologically based and supported by sociological and anthropological theory, the book is perfect for those looking to examine and understand life in the European Iron Age. We are so grateful to the research project titled "Paisajes rurales antiguos del Noroeste peninsular: formas de dominacion romana y explotacion de recursos" [Ancient rural landscapes in Northwestern Iberia: Roman dominion and resource exploitation] (HAR2015-64632-P; MINECO/FEDER), directed from the Instituto de Historia (CSIC) and also to the Fundaçao para a Ciencia e a Tecnologia [Foundation for Science and Technology] postdoctoral project: SFRH-BPD-102407-2014.

Author : Bryan S. Turner,Robert J. Holton
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 282 pages
File Size : 49,8 Mb
Release : 2014-08-27
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781317652250

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Talcott Parsons on Economy and Society (RLE Social Theory) by Bryan S. Turner,Robert J. Holton Pdf

'In this remarkable collection of essays, Holton and Turner demonstrate that Parsonian sociology addresses the most central problems of our time – issues of sickness and health, power and inequality, the nature of capitalism and its possible alternatives. They develop a mature and original perspective on Parsons as the only classical theorist who avoided crippling nostalgia. Holton and Turner not only talk about Parsonian sociology in a profound and insightful way, they do it, and do it well. As sociology moves away from the rigid dichotomies of earlier debate, this book will help point the way.' – Jeffrey Alexander, Professor and Director of Graduate Studies in Sociology, UCLA

Author : Keith Tester
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 240 pages
File Size : 46,7 Mb
Release : 2016-02-17
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781317002987

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Utopia: Social Theory and the Future by Keith Tester Pdf

In the light of globalization's failure provide the universal panacea expected by some of its more enthusiastic proponents, and the current status of neo-liberalism in Europe, a search has begun for alternative visions of the future; alternatives to the free market and to rampant capitalism. Indeed, although these alternatives may not be conceived of in terms of being a 'perfect order', there does appear to be a trend towards 'utopian thinking', as people - including scholars and intellectuals - search for inspiration and visions of better futures. If, as this search continues, it transpires that politics has little to offer, then what might social theory have to contribute to the imagination of these futures? Does social theory matter at all? What resources can it offer this project of rethinking the future? Without being tied to any single political platform, Utopia: Social Theory and the Future explores some of these questions, offering a timely and sustained attempt to make social theory relevant through explorations of its resources and possibilities for utopian imaginations. It is often claimed that utopian thought has no legitimate place whatsoever in sociological thinking, yet utopianism has remained part and parcel of social theory for centuries. As such, in addition to considering the role of social theory in the imagination of alternative futures, this volume reflects on how social theory may assist us in understanding and appreciating utopia or utopianism as a special topic of interest, a special subject matter, a special analytical focus or a special normative dimension of sociological thinking. Bringing together the latest work from a leading team of social theorists, this volume will be of interest to sociologists, social and political theorists, anthropologists and philosophers.

Author : Charles E. Hurst
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 192 pages
File Size : 44,8 Mb
Release : 2015-09-07
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781317346708

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Living Theory by Charles E. Hurst Pdf

Living Theory: The Application of Classical Social Theory to Contemporary Life, 2nd edition analyzes major features of modern society from the classical theory point of view, and suggests how modern life might be explained from this viewpoint. The author examines the works of four classical figures - Marx, Durkheim, Simmel, and Weber - because of their continuing influence on social theory, and because they addressed many of the central issues we confront in modern society. Topics new to this edition include: New electronic technologies The battle over valued property The role of trust in society Governmental secrecy Trafficking in human organs

Author : Alain Caillé,Frédéric Vandenberghe
Publisher : Taylor & Francis
Page : 156 pages
File Size : 42,6 Mb
Release : 2020-10-25
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781000203462

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For a New Classic Sociology by Alain Caillé,Frédéric Vandenberghe Pdf

This book examines the future of the social sciences and the reconstruction of society in contemporary times. Drawing on the lead piece For a New Classic Sociology, it calls for a new theoretical synthesis that overcomes the fragmentation, specialization and professionalization within the social sciences. The position paper and the responses by a team of world-class social theorists provide an alternative to utilitarianism and the colonization of the social sciences by rational choice models, propose a new articulation of social theory, and moral, social and political philosophy. It recommends a return to classical social theory and explores articulations between theories of reciprocity, care and recognition. A radical intervention in the study of the social sciences, the volume will be indispensable to scholars and researchers across the social sciences, especially social theory and sociology and social anthropology. Contributions by Frank Adloff, Jeffrey C. Alexander, Francis Chateauraynaud, Raewyn Connell, François Dubet, Philip Gorski, Nathalie Heinich, Qu Jingdong, Mike Savage, Michael Singleton and Philippe Steiner.

Author : Richard Badham
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 194 pages
File Size : 52,6 Mb
Release : 2014-08-21
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781317650522

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Theories of Industrial Society (RLE Social Theory) by Richard Badham Pdf

The concept of industrial society plays a dominant role in the social sciences. The ‘Great Divide’ between pre-industrial and industrial societies is commonly assumed to be the main bridge separating modern societies from the past, and distinguishing ‘developed’ from ‘undeveloped’ states in the present era. In history, economics, politics and sociology the concept of industrial society underlies a wide variety of discussions, particularly those relating to economic development and social progress. Outside academic writing, too, the concept exerts a great deal of influence. In the developing world, there is a widespread concern to ‘industrialise’, whilst in the developed world there is growing uneasiness as to whether ‘industrialisation’ is beneficial or not, but still the concept is central. This book examines critically the concept of industrial society, its pervasiveness and influence. It reviews all the major theories of industrial society and the research into the changing character of post-industrial societies. It argues that the decision to use the concept severely restricts the social imagination, and that the concept becomes increasingly less useful as criticism of the equating of industrialisation with social progress grows.

Author : Jonathan H. Turner
Publisher : Homewood, Ill : Dorsey Press
Page : 364 pages
File Size : 49,6 Mb
Release : 1974
Category : Social Science
ISBN : MINN:319510018280760

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The Structure of Sociological Theory by Jonathan H. Turner Pdf

Author : Talcott Parsons
Publisher : New York : Free Press
Page : 586 pages
File Size : 42,9 Mb
Release : 1967
Category : Social Science
ISBN : STANFORD:36105002505993

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Sociological Theory and Modern Society by Talcott Parsons Pdf

Author : Wesley Longhofer,Daniel Winchester
Publisher : Taylor & Francis
Page : 943 pages
File Size : 44,9 Mb
Release : 2023-06-22
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781000888249

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Social Theory Re-Wired by Wesley Longhofer,Daniel Winchester Pdf

This third edition of Social Theory Re-Wired is a significantly revised edition of this leading text and its unique web learning interactive programs that "allow us to go farther into theory and to build student skills than ever before," according to many teachers. Vital political and social updates are reflected both in the text and the online supplements. "System updates" to each section offer an expanded set of contemporary theory readings that focus on the impacts of information/digital technologies on each of the text’s five big themes: 1) the Puzzles of Social Order, 2) the Social Consequences of Capitalism, 3) the Darkside of Modernity, 4) Subordinated/Alternative Knowledges, and 5) Self-Identity and Society. New to this edition: The "big ideas/questions" thematic structure of the text as well as the connections between classical and contemporary theorists continues to be popular with instructors. This feature is enhanced in the new edition An expanded "Podcast Companions" series now pairs at least one podcast to every reading in the book Many new updates to the exercise platform allow students to theorize and build theory on their own New readings excerpts include such important recent work as: Shoshana Zuboff’s "The Age of Surveillance Capitalism," Ruha Benjamin’s "Race After Technology," David Graeber’s "Of Flying Cars and the Declining Rate of Profit," Sherry Turkle’s “Always-On/Always-on-You.”

Author : David Held,John B. Thompson
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 320 pages
File Size : 49,8 Mb
Release : 1989-12-07
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 052126197X

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Social Theory of Modern Societies by David Held,John B. Thompson Pdf

During the past decade, Anthony Giddens has published a series of substantial volumes that have defined a distinctive and original theoretical approach. The twin focal points of his research are the "theory of structuration" and the analysis of "modernity." Giddens' writing on these and related themes are widely recognized as among the most important contributions to theoretical debate in the social sciences. This is the first book to provide a systematic and critical assessment of Giddens' work. It includes eleven critical essays specially commissioned from contributors who are well known in their own fields. In a concluding essay, Giddens responds to the criticisms raised by these and other authors, and clarifies and elaborates on his current views.

Author : Talcott Parsons,Giuseppe Sciortino
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 537 pages
File Size : 52,9 Mb
Release : 2015-11-17
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9781317263760

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American Society by Talcott Parsons,Giuseppe Sciortino Pdf

Never before published, American Society is the product of Talcott Parsons' last major theoretical project. Completed just a few weeks before his death, this is Parsons' promised 'general book on American society'. It offers a systematic presentation and revision of Parson's landmark theoretical positions on modernity and the possibility of objective sociological knowledge. Even after the passage of many years, American Society imparts a remarkably provocative interpretation of US society and a creative approach to social theory.

Author : Peter Hedström,Richard Swedberg
Publisher : Cambridge University Press
Page : 356 pages
File Size : 51,8 Mb
Release : 1998-01-13
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 0521596874

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Social Mechanisms by Peter Hedström,Richard Swedberg Pdf

The advancement of social theory requires an analytical approach that systematically seeks to explicate the social mechanisms that generate and explain observed associations between events. These essays, written by prominent social scientists, advance criticisms of current trends in social theory and suggest alternative approaches. The mechanism approach calls attention to an intermediary level of analysis in between pure description and story-telling, on the one hand, and grand theorizing and universal social laws, on the other. For social theory to be of use for the working social scientist, it must attain a high level of precision and provide a toolbox from which middle range theories can be constructed.