The Emergence of Sociological Theory

by Jonathan H. Turner, Leonard Beeghley, Charles H. Powers

Now published by SAGE, this scholarly text covers the first one hundred years of sociological theorizing, from 1830-1930, focusing primarily on Comte, Spencer, Marx, Weber, Simmel, Durkheim, and Mead. The text provides an in-depth examination of these early sociological theorists with biographical background, analysis of key works, major influences, critical insights, and also answers the question, "What do these ideas tell us about the basic forces that shape the social world?" Posing this question for each theorist adds a unique perspective to the text and distinguishes it from other sociological theory books. In addition, it also includes material on the enduring models and principles of the theorists' work that continue to inform sociological theory today.

Genres: Sociology

520 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Jonathan H. Turner is a professor of sociology at University of California, Riverside.

Reviews

[Ryan Lincoln · Rating 3 out of 5]

Recommended reading by Notre Dame Prof. Christian Smith.

I'm reading this to get a head-start on my PhD program in Sociology. It seems to be a good introduction for someone who has not studied the history of sociology or much sociological theory.

It surveys the thought of 5 or so prominent and early sociologists and begins the coverage with a biographical sketch of the theorist, which provides very useful context.