The Metaphorical Society

An Invitation to Social Theory

Nonfiction, Social & Cultural Studies, Social Science, Sociology
Cover of the book The Metaphorical Society by Daniel Rigney, Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Daniel Rigney ISBN: 9781461644804
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Publication: March 21, 2001
Imprint: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers Language: English
Author: Daniel Rigney
ISBN: 9781461644804
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Publication: March 21, 2001
Imprint: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Language: English

This book introduces the novice reader to modern social theory through the creative exploration of eight major metaphors that have shaped Western understandings of human society. Rigney vividly yet concisely examines each major theoretical perspective in sociology, including functionalism, conflict theory, rational choice, and symbolic interactionism. He shows how each of these theories is rooted in a particular metaphorical tradition. Over decades and centuries, Rigney argues, social theorists have variously likened societies to organisms and living systems, to machines, battlefields, legal systems, marketplaces, games, theatrical productions, and discourses. Most interestingly, Rigney deftly shows how nearly all Western social theories fit with one or more of the metaphors. He emphasizes a humanistic understanding of society with an emphasis on the creative agency of social actors and communities. The book offers students a rich understanding of social theory, yet it is simultaneously concise and broad ranging, allowing instructors to further pursue detailed exploration of any perspectives they choose.

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

This book introduces the novice reader to modern social theory through the creative exploration of eight major metaphors that have shaped Western understandings of human society. Rigney vividly yet concisely examines each major theoretical perspective in sociology, including functionalism, conflict theory, rational choice, and symbolic interactionism. He shows how each of these theories is rooted in a particular metaphorical tradition. Over decades and centuries, Rigney argues, social theorists have variously likened societies to organisms and living systems, to machines, battlefields, legal systems, marketplaces, games, theatrical productions, and discourses. Most interestingly, Rigney deftly shows how nearly all Western social theories fit with one or more of the metaphors. He emphasizes a humanistic understanding of society with an emphasis on the creative agency of social actors and communities. The book offers students a rich understanding of social theory, yet it is simultaneously concise and broad ranging, allowing instructors to further pursue detailed exploration of any perspectives they choose.

More books from Rowman & Littlefield Publishers

Cover of the book A Guide to Ministry Self-Care by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Historical Dictionary of the People's Republic of China by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Associate Staff Ministry by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Why We're All Romans by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Drugs, Oil, and War by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Opportunities Missed, Opportunities Seized by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book The Mystery in School Finances by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Questioning Assumptions and Challenging Perceptions by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Governance in China by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Teach Like the Mind Learns by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book The Myths of Standardized Tests by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Alexis de Tocqueville and American Intellectuals by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Interim Ministry in Action by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book Having Sex, Wanting Intimacy by Daniel Rigney
Cover of the book The Statesman by Daniel Rigney
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