Classical Sociological Theory Review

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(More customer reviews)I have benefited from reading various editions of Ritzer's text on classical sociological theory. He gives a good deal of attention to the social contexts in which authors work, and covers a broad range of theorists.
In some ways, however, the strengths of Ritzer's treatment of classical theorists are also its weaknesses. If one were looking for applications to contemporary circumstances, it is difficult to make the case for Comte and Spencer. For historical reasons they certainly belong in an introductory overview of the development of the discipline. However, even with the current antiquarian revival of interest in Spencer, Ritzer has written a very conventional theory textbook. A good one, yes, since his prose is clear, his accounts are informative, and he does not trivialize important issues, but quite conventional nonetheless.
For someone interested in efforts to synthesize differing perspectives and hoping to think about contemporary issues within a framework provided by classical theory, Ritzer's book is a bit off the mark. Nevertheless, it is well suited for beginning undergraduates and others making a first foray into sociological theory. It serves best those who are comfortable with list-like presentation of material that is more descriptive than evaluative, and who are not concerned with synthesis or application.


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With one of the foremost authorities on sociological theory as lead author, this best-selling text gives readers a comprehensive overview of the major classical theorists and schools of sociological thought. Key theories are integrated with biographical sketches of theorists, placing readings in context and helping students understand the original works of classical authors as well as compare and contrast their theories.

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