The art of social theory / Richard Swedberg.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Swedberg, Richard, author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Sociology--Methodology.

Sociology.

Physical Description:

283 pages ; 23 cm

Place of Publication:

Princeton : Princeton University Press, [2014]

Summary:

"In the social sciences today, students are taught theory by reading and analyzing the works of Karl Marx, Max Weber, and other foundational figures of the discipline. What they rarely learn, however, is how to actually theorize. The Art of Social Theory is a practical guide to doing just that.In this one-of-a-kind user's manual for social theorists, Richard Swedberg explains how theorizing occurs in what he calls the context of discovery, a process in which the researcher gathers preliminary data and thinks creatively about it using tools such as metaphor, analogy, and typology. He guides readers through each step of the theorist's art, from observation and naming to concept formation and explanation. To theorize well, you also need a sound knowledge of existing social theory. Swedberg introduces readers to the most important theories and concepts, and discusses how to go about mastering them. If you can think, you can also learn to theorize. This book shows you how.Concise and accessible, The Art of Social Theory features helpful examples throughout, and also provides practical exercises that enable readers to learn through doing"-- Provided by publisher.

Contents:

Introduction: Why Theorize and Can You Learn to Do It?

Part 1. How to Theorize: Chapter 1. Starting Anew; Chapter 2. Social Observation; Chapter 3. Naming, Concept, and Typology; 4. Analogy, Metaphor, and Pattern; Chapter 5. Coming Up with an Explanation

Part 2. Preparing for Theorizing: Chapter 6. Heuristics; Chapter 7. Practical Exercises; Chapter 8. The Role of Theory; Chapter 9. Imagination and Art; Chapter 10. Summary and More

Appendix: How to Theorize according to Charles S. Peirce.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages 253-277) and index.

ISBN:

0691155224

9780691155227

OCLC:

861665877

Publisher Number:

99959977018