The Art of Social Theory

Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Sociology
Cover of the book The Art of Social Theory by Richard Swedberg, Princeton University Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Richard Swedberg ISBN: 9781400850358
Publisher: Princeton University Press Publication: August 10, 2014
Imprint: Princeton University Press Language: English
Author: Richard Swedberg
ISBN: 9781400850358
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Publication: August 10, 2014
Imprint: Princeton University Press
Language: English

In the social sciences today, students are taught theory by reading and analyzing the works of Karl Marx, Max Weber, and other foundational figures of the discipline. What they rarely learn, however, is how to actually theorize. The Art of Social Theory is a practical guide to doing just that.

In this one-of-a-kind user's manual for social theorists, Richard Swedberg explains how theorizing occurs in what he calls the context of discovery, a process in which the researcher gathers preliminary data and thinks creatively about it using tools such as metaphor, analogy, and typology. He guides readers through each step of the theorist’s art, from observation and naming to concept formation and explanation. To theorize well, you also need a sound knowledge of existing social theory. Swedberg introduces readers to the most important theories and concepts, and discusses how to go about mastering them. If you can think, you can also learn to theorize. This book shows you how.

Concise and accessible, The Art of Social Theory features helpful examples throughout, and also provides practical exercises that enable readers to learn through doing.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

In the social sciences today, students are taught theory by reading and analyzing the works of Karl Marx, Max Weber, and other foundational figures of the discipline. What they rarely learn, however, is how to actually theorize. The Art of Social Theory is a practical guide to doing just that.

In this one-of-a-kind user's manual for social theorists, Richard Swedberg explains how theorizing occurs in what he calls the context of discovery, a process in which the researcher gathers preliminary data and thinks creatively about it using tools such as metaphor, analogy, and typology. He guides readers through each step of the theorist’s art, from observation and naming to concept formation and explanation. To theorize well, you also need a sound knowledge of existing social theory. Swedberg introduces readers to the most important theories and concepts, and discusses how to go about mastering them. If you can think, you can also learn to theorize. This book shows you how.

Concise and accessible, The Art of Social Theory features helpful examples throughout, and also provides practical exercises that enable readers to learn through doing.

More books from Princeton University Press

Cover of the book Secret Reports on Nazi Germany by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Power and Plenty by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book When Least Is Best by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book A Shrinking Island by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book The Killing Season by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Talk at the Brink by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book A Mathematical Nature Walk by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book What Is "Your" Race? by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Pericles of Athens by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Through the Eye of a Needle by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book State Death by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Eating People Is Wrong, and Other Essays on Famine, Its Past, and Its Future by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Invisible Listeners by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Final Matters by Richard Swedberg
Cover of the book Active Defense by Richard Swedberg
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy