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Key Features:
- Explores questions concerning the
usefulness of sociology and the problems involved in engaging
in social intervention
- Includes readings which students can
use to evaluate the usefulness of different sociological
perspectives
- Compares and contrasts different sociological
traditions, and their engagements with 'the social'
- Contains numerous activities, readings
and illustrations to encourage students to think laterally
around the subject area
- Throughout the book, key terms and
names are highlighted to aid study
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Why will students engage with this
book?
The Uses of Sociology discusses whether sociological
knowledge is important. It introduces students to the main ways
in which sociology is practised in the world and explores the major
debates concerning its social purposes.
Each specially written chapter is supported
by carefully-selected readings, enabling students to evaluate the
usefulness of different sociological perspectives.
Why will academics enjoy working with
this book?
Questions considered in this book include the relevance of sociological
knowledge to government, the public sphere, the media, economic
life, social movements, 'race' and ethnicity. The text also discusses
related issues, such as whether sociology is a science or a cultural
endeavour, and whether sociological research and analysis can be
detached and unbiased.
Comparing and contrasting different traditions
of sociological thought, the authors examine the different modes
in which they engage with the social.
Each chapter is accompanied by a set of
extracts from key, previously published, readings that are relevant
to the chapter topic. At the end of the book you will also find
the following set of 'generic' readings which explore the uses of
sociology:
- Auguste Comte: The positive philosophy
(1853)
- Robert A. Nisbet: Sociology as an
art form (1968)
- C. Wright Mills: The sociological
imagination (1959)
- Zygmunt Bauman: Legislators and interpreters
(1987)
- Michel Foucault: Governmentality
(1991)
- Anne Witz: The feminist challenge
(1997)
- John Urry: Sociology as a parasite:
some vices and virtues (1981)
These readings have been selected for
their broader relevance to the overall themes of the book, exemplifying
both historically important writing as well as current approaches.
Who will benefit from this book?
The Uses of Sociology will benefit all undergraduate
students of sociology.
Publication details:
| Publication date: |
April 2002 |
| Details: |
360 pages 246 x 189 mm / 7.5 x 9.75 in |
| Paperback: |
9780631233145 £15.99 / $39.95 |
| Hardback: |
9780631233138 £55.00 / $74.95 |
Desk Copies
If you would like to receive a complimentary examination copy
of the book, and teach a relevant course with over 12 students,
simply send an email to Louise
Cooper.
Please state the book title, your name,
address and your course details, and we would be delighted to send
you a copy.
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