Living Theory: The Application of Classical Social Theory to Contemporary Life, 2nd edition analyzes major features of modern society from the classical theory point of view, and suggests how modern life might be explained from this viewpoint.

The author examines the works of four classical figures - Marx, Durkheim, Simmel, and Weber - because of their continuing influence on social theory, and because they addressed many of the central issues we confront in modern society.

Topics new to this edition include:

• New electronic technologies
• The battle over valued property
• The role of trust in society
• Governmental secrecy
• Trafficking in human organs

This short, jargon-free text helps students see how the classical theories of Marx, Durkheim, Simmel, and Weber address many of the issues and problems of contemporary society.

About the Author

Charles E. Hurst is emeritus professor of sociology, having taught at The College of Wooster for 38 years. His research has focused on issues of poverty and inequality in the U.S., the use of social theory to understand contemporary social issues, and the nature of Amish society. He has also served as a consultant to various countywide social agencies. He is author of Living Theory: The Application of Classical Social Theory to Contemporary Life, and co-author of An Amish Paradox: Diversity and Change in the WorldaEURO (TM)s Largest Amish Community, which won the Dale W. Brown 2011 Book Award for outstanding scholarship in Anabaptist and Pietist Studies

Book Information
ISBN 9780205452231
Author Charles Hurst
Format Paperback
Page Count 192
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Inc
Weight(grams) 249g