Role Volume 4, Sociological Studies [Paperback]

This volume raises a number of questions about the adequacy of the theoretical concept of role when used to describe social phenomena.This book was first published in 1972. The concept of role has been central to the development of knowledge about, and measures of, the normative context which mediates between the individual and society. This volume raises a number of questions about the adequacy of the theoretical concept of role when used to describe social phenomena.This book was first published in 1972. The concept of role has been central to the development of knowledge about, and measures of, the normative context which mediates between the individual and society. This volume raises a number of questions about the adequacy of the theoretical concept of role when used to describe social phenomena.This book was first published in 1972. The concept of role has been central to the development of knowledge about, and measures of, the normative context which mediates between the individual and society. The whole controversy of the primacy of 'nature' or 'nurture' has been contained within this loose-fitting concept. As in the first three volumes on Social Stratification, Migration and Professions and Professionalisation, the purpose of this volume was to raise a number of questions about the adequacy of theoretical concepts used by sociologists and others to describe social phenomena.Editor's preface; List of contributors; 1. Role - editorial introduction J. A. Jackson; 2. The concept of social role as an element of sociological theory H. Popitz; 3. The man and the mask: a discussion of role-theory M. Bradbury, B. Heading and M. Hollis; 4. Role and value development across the life-cycle C. Gordon; 5. Role: a redundant concept in sociology? some educational considerations M. Coulson; 6. Role performances and social comparison processes J. Urry; 7. Reply to Mr Urry W. G. Runciman; Index.