Sociological Theory

A contribution to the study and application of sociological theory, this book examines a wide range of theories within a framework that clarifies their interrelationships and illustrates their implications for empirical research. It points out the symbiotic relationships among these theories which, at first, may appear to be in direct opposition. In this fundamental contribution to the study and application of sociological theory, Wallace examines a wide range of theories within a framework that clarifies their interrelationships and illustrates their implications for empirical research. Wallace is able to point out the symbiotic relationships among these theories which, at first, may appear to be in direct opposition - or at least discord. Sociological Theory begins with an original essay by the editor that introduces the reader to eleven general theoretical viewpoints. He calls these ecologism, demographism, materialism, psychologism, technologism, functional structuralism, exchange structuralism, conflict structuralism, symbolic interactionism, social actionism, and functional imperativism. To do this, Wallace assembles selected readings by major theorists that provide detailed examples of each of the theoretical viewpoints discussed. The selections are keyed to the framework developed in the Introduction, so as to enable the reader to work back and forth between the general and the particular statements. Offering far more than a mere survey or an abstract critical analysis, In this way, Sociological Theory provides a learning matrix that facilitates comprehension and enables the reader systematically to expand his knowledge of sociological theory.In developing his analytical framework, Wallace points out how these different types of theory complement rather than conflict with one another. Through this approach, he is able to show the distinctive level and scope of analysis of each theory to demonstrate why the sociologist must draw upon and integrate several viewpoints for interpreting research results and formulating hypotheses. A useful guide and reference work for researchers and teachers, the book is an excellent basic or supplementary text for all theory courses. As Robert K. Merton noted at the time of the original publication, ' Sociological Theory is a beautiful piece of work.' Review: The aim of this well-edited introduction to sociological theory is to discover useful ways to organize contemporary theories and clarify their content... It is highly informative and extremely useful for teaching theory analysis and construction. --Leonard H. Jordan, Jr., American Sociological Review This book is divided into two parts: an overview by Wallace of contemporary sociological theory (59 pages), and a collection of 15 readings on the subject (226 pages) grouped under 11 sections (for example, demographism, technologism, conflict structuralism and functional immperativism). --J. E. T. Eldridge, The British Journal of Sociology A beautiful piece of work. Locates the basic components of contemporary theoretical orientations and so discloses their fundamental similarities and differences. Succinct, informed and informative--disciplined analysis that provides pleasure to the sociological mind. --Robert K. Merton, Giddings Professor of Sociology, Columbia University