Making Sense of Social Theory [Paperback]

Making Sense of Social Theoryopens by carefully exploring what it means to follow the scientific method in a field like sociology. The book goes on to analyze sociology as a genuine science with a body of explanatory insights. Sociological theory is applied in ways that make its relevance and power apparent so that theory no longer stands divorced from real world research or practice.Making Sense of Social Theoryclearly establishes the pertinence of sociology's great theoretical insights for all social science researchers and practitioners.Charles H. Powersis a professor of sociology at Santa Clara University.

In the second edition ofMaking Sense of Social Theory, Charles Powers highlights the practical uses of social theory by expanding on real world, relatable examples that occur in everyday life. Students will find these examples accessible and ultimately learn a great deal about the applications of social theory in their own lives. Powers succeeds here in making classical and contemporary social theory-often obtuse and complex-relatable, sensible, and teachable. Jonathan Isler, Assistant Professor of Sociology, University of Illinois at Springfield

InMaking Sense of Social Theory, Charles Powers provides a comprehensive and transparent overview of classical sociological theory. With its emphasis upon practical applications, this text will be of value to first-year college students and experienced hands alike. Jeff Sallaz, PhD, University of Arizona

Part 1 Part 1: Understanding What Theory Is About
Chapter 2 Ch. 1: Becoming a Better Social Scientist by Learning More about Social Theory
Chapter 3 Ch. 2: Theory Is Not as Hard as It Sounds!
Chapter 4 Ch. 3: Sociological Theory and the Scientific Method
Part 5 Part 2: Thinking About the Roots, Methods, and Uses of Sociological Theory
Chapter 6 Chapter 4: The Historical Context for a Science of Society
Chapter 7 Chapter 5: Being Conscious about l#g