Status
Available
Collection
Publication
Cambridge University Press (1973), 261 pages
Description
Giddens's analysis of the writings of Marx, Durkheim and Weber has become the classic text for any student seeking to understand the three thinkers who established the basic framework of contemporary sociology. The first three sections of the book, based on close textual examination of the original sources, contain separate treatments of each writer. The author demonstrates the internal coherence of their respective contributions to social theory. The concluding section discusses the principal ways in which Marx can be compared with the other two authors, and discusses misconceptions of some conventional views on the subject.
User reviews
LibraryThing member AlexTheHunn
This book was assigned by my major graduate professor as an means of access to Marx, Durkheim and Weber. This professor is one I admire and respect profoundly, so I do not regard his suggestions (let alone assignments) lightly. However good this book is in terms of actual content, I must confess
How much of this is the fault of the book and how much is my own intellectual failing and lack of interest? I certainly will own up to my share of the blame here. But surely Giddens could have done something to render his subject more appealing. This may very well be a good book, but I very much hope I never have to open it again. For what it is worth, many in the class did not like it as much as I did!
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that it bores me thoroughly. I had difficulty staying awake as we read it chapter by chapter. I came away with little information since it all blurred and washed over me without positive effect. Only later, when I was forced to read small portions of the book did I actually derive useful information and a true analysis as promised in the title. How much of this is the fault of the book and how much is my own intellectual failing and lack of interest? I certainly will own up to my share of the blame here. But surely Giddens could have done something to render his subject more appealing. This may very well be a good book, but I very much hope I never have to open it again. For what it is worth, many in the class did not like it as much as I did!
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LibraryThing member johnclaydon
Giddens's later books are a swamp of nebulous pomp, but this early one is very good.
Language
Original language
English
Physical description
8.98 inches
ISBN
0521097851 / 9780521097857