C. Wright Mills' classic The Sociological Imagination has inspired generations of students to study Sociology. However, the book is nearly half a century old. What would a book address, aiming to attract and inform students in the 21st century? This is the task that Steve Fuller sets himself in this major new invitation to study Sociology. The book:
Critically examines the history of the social sciences to discover what the key contributions of sociology have been and how relevant they remain.
Demonstrates how biological and sociological themes have been intertwined from the beginning of both disciplines, from the 19th century to the present day.
Covers virtually all of sociology's classic theorists and themes.
Provides a glossary of key thinkers and concepts.
This book sets the agenda for imagining sociology in the 21st century and will attract students and professionals alike.
PART ONE: DESPERATELY SEEKING SOCIOLOGY IN THE 21ST CENTURY
Tales of the Academic Undead
The Mysterious Disappearance of Society
The Social Sciences at Risk
A Brief History of the Stakes
Socialism as the Elusive Synthesis at the Heart of Social Science
The Problem of Inheritance and Socialism's Ultimate Retreat to Naturalism
Towards a Renewal of Welfare and the Rediscovery of British Sociology
Interlude
Today's Orwellian Turn in Sociology
PART TWO: THE BIOLOGICAL CHALLENGE TO SOCIAL SCIENCE
The Hidden Biological Past of Classical Social Theory
Making the Difference between Sociology and Biology Matter Today
Beware of Darwinists Bearing Leftist Gifts
The Struggle for Marx's Successor
Who (or What) Deserves Our Sympathy?
PART THREE: HUMANITY AS THE ENDANGERED SPECIES OF OUR TIMES
The Coming World-Historic Struggle in Science and Religion
Understanding the Fundamentalist Backlash against Secularism
Karma Secularized
The Darwinian Turn in Development Policy
Might we become Nazis in Paradise?
Conclusion
Is There No Escape from Human Nature?
