This book presents the first comprehensive and critical account of Jeffrey Alexander's cultural sociology. Alexander has proposed a "strong program" in cultural sociology that analyses the cultural pragmatics of social performance, and his hermeneutical approach connects meaningful political action with deeper symbolic structures of social life. His highly original account of the civil sphere, as an institutionalized domain that is shaped by the discourse of liberty and solidarity and that sustains universalizing cultural aspirations provides an illuminating perspective on how democracy functions, and fails to function, in contemporary societies.

This book charts the development of Alexander's thought in all its complexity. Through its critical readings, it also opens up a dialogue with other contemporary approaches in sociology, situating Alexander's work in relation to others and highlighting alternative views that challenge his ideas. It is an invaluable introduction for anyone who wishes to learn more about the work of one of the most creative sociologists of our time.

About the Author
Jean-Francois Cote is Professor of Sociology at the University of Quebec at Montreal.

Reviews
"Jeffrey Alexander's 'strong program' for cultural sociology is a major effort to revitalize the classical sociological tradition - and challenge both materialist and instrumental perspectives. It has evolved over many years, shifting among theoretical syntheses, programmatic statements, and analyses of practical issues in democratic culture. Fully understanding it calls for a guide, and Jean-Francois Cote performs this role with clarity and insight. Whether you wish to follow Alexander or challenge him, you will find Cote's analysis invaluable."
Craig Calhoun, Arizona State University and LSE

"An essential overview of Jeffrey Alexander's cultural sociology, Cote's important critical synthesis connects its many contributions to illuminate one of the most ambitious, sustained, and useful projects in contemporary sociology."
Lyn Spillman, University of Notre Dame



Book Information
ISBN 9781509555567
Author Jean-Francois Cote
Format Paperback
Page Count 192
Imprint Polity Press
Publisher John Wiley and Sons Ltd
Weight(grams) 272g
Dimensions(mm) 213mm * 137mm * 18mm