Sociological Theory in the Contemporary Era - 9781412987615

Sociological Theory in the Contemporary Era, Second Edition, combines well-edited, important original writings from sociology's core contemporary theorists with introductory text that provides a historical and theoretical framework for understanding them. Authors Scott Appelrouth and Laura Desfor Edles use this unique text/reader approach to introduce students to contemporary sociological theory in a lively and engaging fashion.

New to This Edition

The second edition covers additional theorists such as George Ritzer and offers new readings in Chapter 2, 7, and 10; new tables that compare and contrast theories; more "Significant Others" boxes to introduce related theorists' voices; new photos; and substantial revisions to the opening chapter.

The authors have reframed Chapter 7 on feminist theory to cover gender theory, incorporating queer theory and presenting an additional theorist, Raewyn Connell.

A new glossary summarizes key terms used in this textbook.

This edition presents an updated photo illustration program and diagrams.

Key Features

The book focuses on well-known figures such as Talcott Parsons and Michel Foucault while also providing an in-depth discussion of lesser-known voices such as Leslie Sklair.

The book enables students to compare and contrast core concepts and ideas by providing not only a biographical and theoretical summary of each theorist and reading but also an overarching theoretical framework with which to understand, compare, and contrast these selections.

The authors draw students in with contemporary applications and examples that get them to see that sociological theory is central to their everyday livesùand fascinating as well.

The text presents a rich variety of pedagogical tools, including tables, figures, discussion questions, and photographs, illuminating complex ideas and engaging student interest.

Includes an Instructor Teaching Site at www.pineforge.com/appelrouth2e

New, password-protected teaching resources include test questions and PowerPoint slides for each chapter.