Understanding Classical Sociology: Marx, Weber, Durkheim

By John A. Hughes, Wes W. Sharrock, Peter J. Martin

Book Overview

Whether you′re teaching or studying sociology, you invariably confront a fundamental question--given the rapid changes in today′s society, how relevant are the ideas of Marx, Weber, and Durkheim? Now, in Understanding Classical Sociology, three leading scholars provide a lucid, accessible analysis of this central question. Against the current trend of postmodern thought, the authors stress the continuities of the sociological tradition originally set down by Marx, Weber, and Durkheim. They clearly demonstrate that the ideas of these three figures shaped the development of the discipline and remain of primary importance and relevance. After a concise introduction that provides an outline of the main elements of the sociological tradition, the authors present a detailed account of the main ideas of each writer and connect these ideas with more contemporary sociological ideas and approaches. Written by sensitive and experienced scholars--with the needs of undergraduates in mind--this book serves as an ideal text for courses in sociology and social theory. "John A. Hughes et al. will rapidly, and rightly, become the essential student source. Totally reliable, if a bit harsh in their judgment of Durkheim, the authors of Understanding Classical Sociology have produced a book urgently needed by all those charged with introducing students to the classics. However, they do more than that." --The Times Higher

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 080398636X
• ISBN13: 9780803986367
• Release Date: July 1995
• Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd
• Length: 240 Pages
• Weight: 1.04 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.5" x 6.5" x 0.8"

Customer Reviews

Classical Sociology Understood

As a student of sociology, I found the text to be definitive and an excellent resource during my studies. The text offers a clear analyasis that is very readable and user friendly to the less initiated in the ranks. A very good companion for Giddens in the study of classical sociological ideology.