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The Sociology of Philosophies
by Randall CollinsRandall Collins traces the movement of philosophical thought in ancient Greece, China, Japan, India, the medieval Islamic and Jewish world, medieval Christendom, and modern Europe. What emerges from this history is a social theory of intellectual change, one that avoids both the reduction of ideas to the influences of society at large and the purely contingent local construction of meanings. Instead, Collins focuses on the social locations where sophisticated ideas are formed: the patterns of intellectual networks and their inner divisions and conflicts.
A Sociology of Place in Australia: Farming, Change and Lived Experience
by Claire BakerThis book weaves a social, economic and cultural history of Australia with rare first-hand accounts of the lived experience of change related to farming and agriculture. It provides a rich sociology of how living on the land has changed throughout Australia’s history. The book investigates the complex effects of the state on everyday life, using an historical agricultural case study of place to explore long-running sociohistorical processes of change examined through both a macro and micro sociological lens. This provides a multi-faceted perspective from which to examine economic, social and cultural transformations in each of these contexts and change is examined through multiple sites of expression: public policy and the role of the state; colonial processes of dispossession; social and cultural systems of value; economic change and its consequences; farming practices and lived experience; neoliberalism and globalisation and their social impacts; community decline and trends toward corporate and foreign land ownership. Each of these transformations impact upon lived experience and everyday life and this book provides grounded insight into exactly this relationship and process.
The Sociology of Postmarxism (Routledge Advances in Sociology)
by Richard HowsonPostmarxism is often depicted as a point of intersection for a set of inter-disciplinary theories that are in themselves complex and dense. Bringing the postmarxist theory of Ernesto Laclau into the field of political sociology through a close reading and analysis of postmarxism and its relationship to ‘the social’, A Sociology of Postmarxism develops key postmarxist arguments in an engaging and sociologically applicable way. Indeed, through a threefold method of analysis, Howson first unpacks the relationship between ‘the social’ and ‘the political’ by analysing key allied theories to show where the points of connection occur. This is then followed by an insightful analysis of the key features of postmarxist theory such as antagonism and the inevitability of social dislocation, the political importance of hegemony; and the empty signifier thesis and equivalence to show how such theory can be applied at a sociological level. Finally, through the use of sociological categories such as masculinities, migration and social capital, the foregoing theoretical analyses are synthesised to show the social nature of postmarxism and particularly in the context of aspiration and co-operation. This enlightening volume will appeal to undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as postdoctoral researchers who are interested in fields such as Political Sociology, Post Marxist Political Theory and Social Theory.
Sociology of Postmodernism (International Library of Sociology)
by Dr Scott LashFirst published in 1990. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.
The Sociology of Power (Routledge Revivals)
by Roderick MartinFirst published in 1977, The Sociology of Power presents a broad comparative study in the sociology of domination by placing empirical research in political and industrial sociology in a comprehensive theoretical framework, derived from Marxism and social exchange theory. Roderick Martin argues that conventional definitions of ‘political sociology’ are no longer relevant, having been replaced by a revival of interest in wider problems, which need to be approached from new theoretical positions. He contends that what is needed is a more general definition, based on the analytical concepts of sociological theory. Three initial general chapters locate the study within the social action tradition and discuss problems of definition and measurement in detail. The major part of the book examines the distribution of power under different systems of labour exploitation-slavery, feudalism and especially capitalism. Professor Martin sees power as most concentrated in slavery, most dispersed in capitalism, and shows the extent and importance of this dispersal by a detailed discussion of power relations within industrial and political organizations, including trade unions and a critique of contemporary elitist theories. By reorienting political sociology around the concept of power and by analyzing the conventionally distinct fields of industrial and political sociology within a common theoretical framework, Roderick Martin offers a persuasive redefinition of the sociology of politics. This is a must read for scholars and researchers of sociology.
A Sociology of Prayer (AHRC/ESRC Religion and Society Series)
by Giuseppe Giordan Linda WoodheadPrayer is a central aspect of religion. Even amongst those who have abandoned organized religion levels of prayer remain high. Yet the most basic questions remain unaddressed: What exactly is prayer? How does it vary? Why do people pray and in what situations and settings? Does prayer imply a god, and if so, what sort? A Sociology of Prayer addresses these fundamental questions and opens up important new debates. Drawing from religion, sociology of religion, anthropology, and historical perspectives, the contributors focus on prayer as a social as well as a personal matter and situate prayer in the conditions of complex late modern societies worldwide. Presenting fresh empirical data in relation to original theorising, the volume also examines the material aspects of prayer, including the objects, bodies, symbols, and spaces with which it may be integrally connected.
The Sociology of Progress (International Library of Sociology)
by Leslie SklairFirst published in 2002. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.
Sociology of Religion: An Historical Introduction
by Roberto CiprianiIn adopting an international perspective that goes beyond the conventional framework of western theology, this volume bridges the divide between European and North American scholars through its careful retrieval of their common theoretical and research interests. Cipriani provides a critical analysis of both classical thought and contemporary currents in this readable text, aimed at both experts and students. He has achieved a broadening in the scientific approach to the study of religion.
Sociology of Religion: An Historical Introduction (Annual Review Of The Sociology Of Religion Ser. #7)
by Roberto CiprianiSociology of Religion represents a documented introduction to the history of sociological thought as applied to religious phenomena. It examines both the substantive and functional definitions of religion that are more open, pluralistic, and not inscribed in a single explanatory horizon or within a single confessional perspective. The contributors' concerns are carefully written to show all sides of the argument. Roberto Cipriani argues for the simple definition that the sociology of religion is an application of sociological theories and methods to religious phenomena. Historically, close ties between sociology and the sociology of religion exist. The slow and uneven development of theory and methods affects the sociology of religion's development, but the latter has also benefited from increasing precision and scientific validity. Other sociological writers agree and disagree about different approaches. Some assume it is a militantly confessional or anti-confessional; others remain neutral within their work.
The Sociology of Religion: A Critical Agenda (Theology And Religion In Interdisciplinary Perspective Series In Association With The Bsa Sociology Of Religion Study Group Ser.)
by Dr Grace DavieWhy is religion still important? Can we be fully modern and fully religious? In this new edition, Davie follows up her discussion of the meaning of religion in modern society and considers how best to research and understand this relationship. Exploring the rapid movements within the sociology of religion today, this revised and updated book: * Describes the origins of the sociology of religion * Demystifies secularization as a process and a theory * Relates religion to modern social theory * Unpacks the meaning of religion in relation to modernity and globalization * Grasps the methodological challenges in the field * Provides a comparative perspective for religions in the west * Introduces questions of minorities and margins * Sets out a critical agenda for debate and research The Sociology of Religion has already proved itself as one of the most important titles within the field; this edition will ensure that it remains an indispensable resource for students and researchers alike.
The Sociology of Religion
by Grace Davie"Davie accomplishes four things, any one of which would be worth the price of the book. First, she provides a clear, thorough review of theory and research in the sociology of religion, and argues successfully for its position as a central subdiscipline. Second, she displays an impressive command of comparative literature in the field, using French, British, and other European sources in addition to those from North American; this makes her presentation both wide and deep. . . Third, Davie underlines the importance of context, historical and geographical, for understanding how theory and case studies develop. . . Finally, the author's endnotes and her extensive bibliography give excellent guidance to beginning and experienced readers alike. " -C. Hendershott, New School University Why is religion still important? Can we be fully modern and fully religious? This book, written by one of the leading figures in the field, works at two levels. First it sets out the agenda “ covering the key questions in the sociology of religion today. At the same time, it interrogates this agenda “ asking if the sociology of religion, as we currently know it, is fit for purpose ". If not, what is to be done? In a single volume Grace Davie captures the nature and forms of modern religion, the current debates in the field and the prospects for future development.
Sociology of Religion: Overview and Analysis of Contemporary Religion (Theology And Religion In Interdisciplinary Perspective Series In Association With The Bsa Sociology Of Religion Study Group Ser.)
by Abby DayThe first sociology of religion textbook to begin the task of diversifying and decolonizing the study of religion, Sociology of Religion develops a sociological frame that draws together the personal, political and public, showing how religion – its origins, development and changes – is understood as a social institution, influenced by and influencing wider social structures. Organized along sociological structures and themes, the book works with examples from a variety of religious traditions and regions rather than focusing in depth on a selection, and foregrounds cultural practice-based understandings of religion. It is therefore a book about ‘religion’, not ‘religions’, that explores the relationship of religion with gender and sexuality, crime and violence, generations, politics and media, ‘race’, ethnicity and social class, disease and disability – highlighting the position of religion in social justice and equality. Each chapter of this book is framed around concrete case studies from a variety of Western and non-Western religious traditions. Students will benefit from thinking about the discipline across a range of geographical and religious contexts. The book includes features designed to engage and inspire students: Up-to-date and comprehensive analysis of engaging and accessible material ‘Case Examples’: short summaries of empirical examples relating to the chapter themes Visually distinct boxes with bullet points, key words and phrases focusing on the context Questions suitable for private or seminar study Suggested class exercises for instructors to use Suggested readings and further readings/online resources at the end of each chapter Following a review and critique of early sociology of religion, the book engages with more contemporary issues, such as dissolving the secular/sacred binary and paying close attention to issues of epistemology, negotiations, marginalities, feminisms, identities, power, nuances, globalization, (post) (multiple) modernity (ies), emotion, structuration, reflexivity, intersectionality and urbanization. This book is essential reading for undergraduate and postgraduate students exploring the sociology of religion, religion and society, religious studies, theology, globalization and human geography.
The Sociology of Religion: An Introduction to Theoretical and Comparative Perspectives
by Malcolm B. HamiltonThe Sociology of Religion is a comprehensive and wide-ranging introduction to theoretical debates in the sociology of religion, placing these theories in the context of specific religious beliefs and practices. Using examples as diverse as primitive religions, Buddhism, millenial movements, the Protestant Ethic, secularisation, cults and the new religious movements, Malcolm Hamilton demonstrates the multiplicity of religious traditions and enables readers to place their own experiences in a wider context. He draws on both historical and anthropological perspectives in his examination of religious practices and outlines the work of major sociological theorists including Marx, Durkheim, Malinowski and other Functionalists, Frazer and Weber in the examination of world religion, bringing these theories up-to-date. The significance of each theoretical perspective is illustrated by chapters on particular beliefs and practices.
The Sociology of Religion: Theoretical and Comparative Perspectives
by Malcolm B. HamiltonThis clear introduction to the sociology of religion combines a discussion of key theorists with a modern emphasis on the diversity of religious beliefs and practices. Malcolm Hamilton's expanded second edition brings the discussion fully up-to-date, and extends its material on secularization and religious sects, giving a broad comparative view. Drawing on the insights of history, anthropology and sociology, he surveys classic and contemporary theory to give a full picture of the variety and scope of theoretical perspectives.
The Sociology of Religion: A Substantive and Transdisciplinary Approach
by Dr George LundskowMost Sociology of Religion texts are decidedly staid and uninteresting, covering "contemporary" developments which are only contemporary only from a disciplinary perspective. They are not contemporary if viewed from the perspective of the religion's practioners (in religious and non-religious settings). The textbooks that attempt to be interesting to undergraduate students often fall short because they either try to cover too much in an encyclopedic format, or sacrifice a sociological perspective for a personal one. Many use real-life examples only superficially to illustrate concepts. Lundskow's approach is the opposite—students will learn the facts of religion in its great diversity, all the most interesting and compelling beliefs and practices, and then learn relevant concepts that can be used to explain empirical observations. The book thus follows the logic of actual research—investigate and then analyze—rather than approaching concepts with no real bearing on how religion is experienced in society. This approach, using provocative examples and with an eye toward the historical and theoretical, not to mention global experience of religion, will make this book a success in the classroom. The author envisions a substantive approach that examines religion as it actually exists in all its forms, including belief, ritual, daily living, identity, institutions, social movements, social control, and social change. Within these broad categories, the book will devote particular chapters to important historical moments and movements, leaders, and various individual religions that have shaped the contemporary form and effect of religion in the world today.
Sociology of Religion: A Reader, CourseSmart (review only)
by William A. Mirola Michael O. Emerson Susanne C MonahanA reader that seeks to explore the relationship between the structure and culture of religion and various elements of social life in the U.S., Sociology of Religion: A Reader, 2e is ideal as either a standalone reader or supplement to the text written by the same author team, Why Religion Matters. Based on both classic and contemporary research in the sociology of religion, this reader highlights a variety of research methods and theoretical approaches. It explores the ways in which religious values, beliefs and practices shape the world outside of church, synagogue, or mosque walls while simultaneously being shaped by the non-religious forces operating in that world.
Sociology of Religion: A Reader
by William A. Mirola Michael O. Emerson Susanne C. MonahanSociology of Religion is a collection that seeks to explore the relationship between the structure and culture of religion and various elements of social life in the United States. This reader is an ideal standalone course text and can also serve as supplement to the text written by the same author team, Religion Matters (Routledge, 2010). Based on both classic and contemporary research in the sociology of religion, this new, third edition highlights a variety of research methods and theoretical approaches to studying the sociological elements of religion. It explores the ways in which religious values, beliefs and practices shape the world outside of church, synagogue, or mosque walls while simultaneously being shaped by the non-religious forces operating in that world.
Sociology of Religion (Routledge Library Editions: Sociology of Religion #16)
by Joachim WachThis book, first published in 1947, presents the then-new subject of sociology of religion in systematic and historical theology and in the science of religion, in political theory and the social sciences, in philosophy and psychology, in philology and anthropology. Its intention is to bridge the gulf between the study of religion and the social sciences, an exercise that draws strongly upon cultural anthropology.
The Sociology of Religious Movements
by William Sims BainbridgeExplaining how religion and society transform each other, this book explores such movements as Holiness, Adventism, religious communes, Satanism, New Age and democratization. The Sociology of Religious Movements is the culmination of work begun in The Future of Religion (the 1986 award winner of the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion) and A Theory of Religion (1993 award winner of the Pacific Sociological Association). Explaining religious schism, innovation, and conversion to show how religion and society transform each other, this book explores such movements as: Holiness, Adventism, religious communes, Children of God, Satanism, New York City Mission Society, New Age, Asian imports, and democratization.
The Sociology of Risk and Gambling Reader
by James F. CosgraveThis reader contributes to the sociology of gambling, and offers a variety of sociological approaches, ranging from classical sociological analyses of gambling to contemporary sociological approaches to risk.
The Sociology of School Organization: Contemporary Sociology of the School (Routledge Library Editions: Sociology of Education #30)
by Ronald KingFirst published in 1983, this volume assembles recent theory on school organization, drawing on a wide range of research, mainly on schools in contemporary Britain but with some illuminating historical and overseas comparisons. It examines elements of organization both within and outside the school, and shows how they vary with the age, sex, ethnicity and social class of pupils, as well as school size and efficiency. It argues how, with understanding, organizational patterns may be changed to respond to new objectives and how they may become more effective and responsive to human needs in schools and classrooms.
The Sociology of Schools (Society Now)
by Karen ChapmanThe sociology of education is concerned not just with the abstract theory but with the day-to-day experiences of pupils and teachers. In this up-to-date account of the main developments in the subject, Karen Chapman shows how education offers a rich and varied field for sociologists, one easily accessible for study.She begins by setting the subject in its historical post-War context. She then goes on to outline comprehensively the subject's theoretical base and anlayses the factors that influence educational change. Specific chapters deal with the topical subjects of educational under-achievement, gender, race and the trend towards a vocational element in curriculum.
A Sociology of Seeking: Portents of Belief (Classical and Contemporary Social Theory)
by Kieran FlanaganA response to the depletion of the rhetoric of sociology and the spiritual capital of theology, this volume explores the remains of Christianity that still lurk as portents in a progressively de-Christianised society seeking replacements for belief. With the sociologist set in the role of an oracle seeking traces of Christianity in a discipline in which the intrusion of theological understandings has become harder to resist, it offers a narrative of belief following the direction of an exemplary portent: the finger. Through the exploration of broad trends in culture and modern history, this study, informed by interactionist thought, examines both the place of sociology in Christian theology, and the failure of theology to connect to its surrounding culture, asking how the two disciplines might meld profitably together. As such, it will appeal to social theorists and theologians, as well as sociologists with interests in religion, culture and secularisation.
A Sociology of Shame and Blame: Insiders Versus Outsiders
by Graham ScamblerThis book presents a novel approach to framing the concept of stigma, and understanding why and how it functions. Graham Scambler extends his analysis beyond common social interactionist understandings of stigma by linking experiences to the larger social structure—the political economy. A Sociology of Shame and Blame contends that stigma is being ‘weaponised’ as part of a calculated political strategy favouring capital accumulation over justice, and addresses how the shame associated with stigma has taken on the additional dimension of blame through micro-interactions. The unique Insider-Outsider approach that Scambler harnesses draws on micro and macro social theory to identify links between the prevalence of stigma and agency, culture and structure, and will be an original and key reference point for students and scholars across the social and behavioural sciences, including, but not limited to, sociology, anthropology, psychology, public health and social policy.
The Sociology of Shari'a: Case Studies from around the World
by Adam Possamai James T Richardson Bryan S. TurnerThis edited volume offers a collection of papers that present a comparative analysis of the development of Shari'a in countries with Muslim minorities, such as America, Australia, Germany, and Italy, as well as countries with Muslim majorities, such as Malaysia, Bangladesh, Turkey, and Tunisia. The Sociology of Shari'a provides a global analysis of these important legal transformations and analyzesthe topic from a sociological perspective. It explores examples of non-Western countries that have a Muslim minority in their populations, including South Africa, China, Singapore, and the Philippines. In addition, the third part of the book includes case studies that explore some ground-breaking theories on the sociology of Shari'a, such as the application of Black, Chambliss, and Eisenstein's sociological perspectives.