An accessible and provocative survey of contemporary social and sociological theories

Written in a conversational style that conveys the author's enthusiam for theory, this updated edition of Ken Allen's acclaimed text appeals to the reader to consider the "theoretical you," as an individual in 21st-century society. This book introduces students to an array of social theories, each presented from the perspective of a well-known theorist:

Peter Blau

Janet Saltzman

Chafetz George Homans

Jean Baudrillard

Michel Foucault

Talcott Parsons

Herbert Blumer

Harold Garfinkel

Dorothy E. Smith

Pierre Bourdieu

Anthony Giddens

Immanuel Wallerstein

Judith Butler

Erving Goffman

William Julius Wilson

Manuel Castells

J rgen Habermas

Cornel West

Filled with examples drawn from daily life, this edition highlights diversity in contemporary society, exploring theories of race, gender, and sexuality that address today's most important social concerns. Students will learn to "think theoretically" and apply theory to their own lives.

New to This Edition

New Organization: The book is organized around the concept of modernity and the significant impact on social thought of Talcott Parsons and the Frankfurt School.

New Chapters: The book includes five new chapters: "In the Beginning There Was Modernity," "Defining Moments in 20th Century Theory—Talcott Parsons and the Frankfurt School," "Social Exchanges," "Structures of Racial and Gender Inequality," and "The Network Society—Manuel Castell."

New Features: "The Theorist's Digest" gives a brief biography, and "Taking the Perspective" presents an overview of the theorist's perspective.

New and Updated Pedagogy: The book's popular "Building Your Theory Toolbox" sections include updated issues and resources; and a new "Glossary of Theoretical Concepts" is provided.