Social Theory: Roots and Branches Readings

by Peter J. Kivisto

The Second Edition of Peter Kivisto's comprehensive collection of student-accessible, primary-source readings provides students an opportunity to experience "first-hand" a broad range of orientations shaping sociological theory today.

New essays in the Second Edition include:
Ulrich Beck on the advent of risk society.
Immanuel Wallerstein on world-system theory.
Manuel Castells on the rise of network society.
A new essay by Erving Goffman on dramaturgical sociology.
Richard Emerson's seminal essay on power-dependence relations.
Bryan Turner on the theoretical contours of a sociology of the body.
Alain Touraine on the shifting salience of citizenship in modern democracies.
A selection by Harriet Martineau, a neglected figure from the classical period.

Benefits of SOCIAL THEORY: ROOTS AND BRANCHES to students and instructors are as follows:
These seminal writings from key theorists were selected for their high degree of relevance and accessibility to undergraduates. The readings help students make the connection across schools of thought—revealing that theories are always about something—as well as demonstrating the roles theories play in interpreting our social world.
This anthology features longer readings than are offered in many anthologies. Included are separate sections on Neglected Voices and Voices From Outside the Discipline.
Brief, thought-provoking introductions frame each article in a larger context and alert students to key points. These introductions serve as a useful "road map" as students travel through the diverse views and continuing debates that make the study of social theory an exciting adventure. These introductions also identify and explain central issues and relationships among the topics covered.

Genres: Sociology, Nonfiction, Philosophy, Academia, Theory

453 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2000

Reviews

[Elliot A · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the title of this book already says, it is a collection of works that describe and explain the fundamentals of social theory.

It was a required book for my social science class and even though it isn't an English literature student's cup of tea, I still found it to be informative and educational.

ElliotScribbles

[Meen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the second text in my graduate theory class, and I enjoyed it much more than the Ritzer & Goodman text. Kivisto is much more eloquent and engaging, which makes the theories themselves much more accessible.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

good book for a social theory class (historical or modern theory). used several articles for intro to sociology class. the works are a bit heady for an intro class but still lets students read the "real" theorist rather than just lecturing about them.

[Sten Leinasaar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well organized and edited book of contemporary social theories. Fundamental book for a Sociologists still aiming to break into the field.

[Heather Lynn]

Reading for Contemporary Sociological Theory