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Examines Durkheim's considerable achievements and situates them in their social and intellectual contexts, with a concise account of the major elements of Durkheim's sociology and his profound influence.

Discusses varieties of Marxism, distinguishing between ideas that remain valid, those that are contestable, and those that should be discarded. Emphasises connections between theoretical debates real political struggles.

Daniel Bell is perhaps the most famous sociologist of his generation. In this invaluable introduction, Malcolm Waters presents Bell's arguments clearly and fairly.

Offers an introduction to the sociology of Niklas Luhmann. This book presents the key concepts in Luhmann's systems theory, including social systems, autopoiesis, self-reference, and second-order observation. It also introduces to his analysis of modern society as differentiated into a number of distinctive function systems.

Offers an account of the sociological dimensions of Baudrillard's thought; from his early semiological and Marxist positions to his works on illusion, terrorism and evil. This book assesses his development of sociological themes including nature and trajectory of 'the social', the ambivalence of social values and resistance to the social system.

An authoritative introduction to the work of Habermas. His sometimes difficult and inaccessible work is rendered accessible by Michael Pusey for the student reader.

This title provides a controversial look at the School's contribution to modern sociology, examining issues previously not discussed, such as the neglect of history and political economy by the critical theorists, and the relationship of the School to radical movements.

Outlines the cultural and historical context in which Simmel worked; reviews Simmel's most important writings; and examines his legacy to sociology by illuminating his links with Weber's theories and his relationship with Marxism.

Focuses on the analysis of the relations of power and knowledge and modes of objectification through which human beings are made subjects; and addresses controversial issues concerning the state and resistance to power.

Where Bourdieu's writings are complex and ambiguous, Jenkins is direct, concise and to the point. This book covers Bourdieu's contributions to theory and methodology, plus substantive studies of education, social stratification and culture.

Auguste Comte is acknowledged as the founder of the science of sociology and the 'Religion of Humanity'. This work examines his sociological vision and shows that because he thought sociology should be reflexive, encyclopaedic and utopian, he considered topics: fetishism, polytheism, and the relations between sociology, science, and culture.

A host of concepts linked to Goffman's name such as 'presentation of self', 'total institutions', 'stigma', 'impression management' and 'passing' are now staples in academic discourses. This book traces the emergence of Goffman as a sociological virtuoso, and offers a guide to his sociology and to the criticisms and debates it has stimulated.

This book provides the definitive concise introduction to Zygmunt Bauman. A well-written text, it assumes no prior knowledge of his work and should appeal to those wishing to explore the ideas of one of the world's most wide-ranging thinkers.