Book Details

• Author: George Ritzer & Jeffrey Stepnisky

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2022

• ISBN: 9788131612651

• Pages: 352 pages

• Cover: Hardback

• Sale Territory: South Asia

About the Book

Contemporary Social Theory and Its Classical Roots: The Basics (Fourth Edition) is a compact yet powerful guide for students and readers seeking an accessible introduction to the foundations and developments in sociological theory. This edition is designed to be both comprehensive and engaging, balancing affordability with depth, making it ideal for classroom adoption as well as self-study.

In this updated edition, the book includes thoughtful discussions on both classical and contemporary sociological schools of thought. Biographical and autobiographical vignettes of key theorists provide personal context to the intellectual frameworks presented. Newly added sections explore the ideas of W.E.B. Du Bois and delve into the terrain of Queer theory.

The text also features:

• Key Concepts boxes offering definitions and explanations of critical sociological terms.

• Contemporary Applications boxes that demonstrate the real-world relevance of theory, covering topics such as the Occupy Movement, antidepressants, and societal responses to gender in public spaces.

Structured around the evolution of sociological theory, the contents cover classical traditions, grand theories, everyday life interpretations, feminist and postmodern approaches, and the dynamics of globalization.

Contents Overview:

• Introduction to Sociological Theory

• Classical Theories I & II

• Contemporary Grand Theories I & II

• Theories of Everyday Life

• Integrative and Feminist Theories

• Postmodern and Globalization Theory

About the Authors

George Ritzer, a globally renowned sociologist, is best known for The McDonaldization of Society. He has received numerous awards and honorary recognitions, including a UNESCO Chair in Social Theory and a Fulbright-Hays Chair. His editorial work includes the Encyclopedia of Social Theory and founding editorship of the Journal of Consumer Culture.

Jeffrey Stepnisky is an Assistant Professor at Grant MacEwan University in Canada, specializing in sociological theory and subjectivity. His work includes publications on antidepressant use and modern selfhood. He has collaborated extensively with George Ritzer and served as managing editor for leading academic journals and reference works in the field.