Marx, Durkheim, Weber: Formations of Modern Social Thought

By Kenneth Morrison

Book Overview

Any course in sociological or political theory requires a keen understanding of Marx, Durkheim, and Weber. Yet, for undergraduates, their first encounter with the ideas of these three thinkers often proves a difficult experience. Now, Ken Morrison offers students a clear, exhaustive guide to the key ideas produced by Marx, Durkheim, and Weber. Not only does he explain the meaning of key ideas but he also places them in their appropriate historical context. Students therefore gain an immediate grasp of both the roots and contemporary relevance of the concepts presented--and, just as important, how they relate to classical tradition. In addition, an unparalleled glossary is included. If you are teaching a course on sociological or political theory--or if you want a quick brush-up on the ideas of these three key thinkers--look no further than this volume. "This is an excellent introduction to classical social theory. For most students it is the only book on the subject that they will need. The expositions are clear and comprehensive, outlining with almost alarming clarity ideas with which many of us have to struggle." --Alan Bryman, Professor of Social Research, Loughborough University

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0803975635
• ISBN13: 9780803975637
• Release Date: December 1995
• Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd
• Length: 384 Pages
• Weight: 1.29 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 6.5" x 1.0"

Customer Reviews

this book is a must have

I'm a Sociology major who got this book at the recommendation of one of my teachers. It is a very helpful book though it would be nice if it included Parsons/Structural Functionalism as well.

Best available discussion of the works of social theory.

This is an outstanding book! It is the clearest, most explicit exposition of the central works of Marx, Durkheim and Weber available. Its theoretical discussions surpasses all secondary literature I know of including the treatments of Giddens, Aron, Nisbet, Zeitlin, Ritzer and Turner. Its strongest sections include discussions of the materialist theory of history, alienation, theory of suicide, rationalization and the Protestant ethic. In addition, the book contains a concept glossary describing in the clearest way possible terms such as ideology, anomie, means of production, division of labour etc. The book is superb for undergraduates and graduates in political and social theory