Understanding Classical Sociology Marx Weber Durkheim Author:John Hughes, Peter J Martin, Wes Sharrock Whether you're teaching or studying sociology, you invariably confront a fundamental question--given the rapid changes in today's society, how relevant are the ideas of Marx, Weber, and Durkheim? Now, in Understanding Classical Sociology, three leading scholars provide a lucid, accessible analysis of this central question. Against the current t... more »rend of postmodern thought, the authors stress the continuities of the sociological tradition originally set down by Marx, Weber, and Durkheim. They clearly demonstrate that the ideas of these three figures shaped the development of the discipline and remain of primary importance and relevance. After a concise introduction that provides an outline of the main elements of the sociological tradition, the authors present a detailed account of the main ideas of each writer and connect these ideas with more contemporary sociological ideas and approaches. Written by sensitive and experienced scholars--with the needs of undergraduates in mind--this book serves as an ideal text for courses in sociology and social theory. "John A. Hughes et al. will rapidly, and rightly, become the essential student source. Totally reliable, if a bit harsh in their judgment of Durkheim, the authors of Understanding Classical Sociology have produced a book urgently needed by all those charged with introducing students to the classics. However, they do more than that." --The Times Higher« less