The Metaphorical Society: An Invitation to Social Theory

The Metaphorical Society: An Invitation to Social Theory

This book introduces the novice reader to modern social theory through the creative exploration of eight major metaphors that have shaped Western understandings of human society. Rigney vividly yet concisely examines each major theoretical perspective in sociology, including functionalism, conflict theory, rational choice, and symbolic interactionism. He shows how each of these theories is rooted in a particular metaphorical tradition. Over decades and centuries, Rigney argues, social theorists have variously likened societies to organisms and living systems, to machines, battlefields, legal systems, marketplaces, games, theatrical productions, and discourses. Most interestingly, Rigney deftly shows how nearly all Western social theories fit with one or more of the metaphors. He emphasizes a humanistic understanding of society with an emphasis on the creative agency of social actors and communities. The book offers students a rich understanding of social theory, yet it is simultaneously concise and broad ranging, allowing instructors to further pursue detailed exploration of any perspectives they choose.

Country	USA
Author	Daniel Rigney
Binding	Kindle Edition
EISBN	9781461644804
Format	Kindle eBook
Label	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Manufacturer	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
NumberOfPages	254
PublicationDate	2001-03-21
Publisher	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
ReleaseDate	2012-08-16
Studio	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers