A collection of introductory essays by an international range of expert contributors giving an insightful and accessible overview of classical and contemporary social theory.

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The Routledge Companion to Social Theory provides an authoritative, comprehensive and provocative introduction to the key traditions of thought in social theory today. This ground-breaking reference work brings together major contributors, both established and emergent new voices, to reflect on the ways in which social theory sheds light on the contemporary social world. Represented are:

the traditions of classical social thought

symbolic interactionism

psychoanalysis

structuralism, post-structuralism and postmodernism

identity theories

globalization theories.

The Routledge Companion to Social Theory is designed to give a sense of the complexities of both classical and contemporary social theory. Including a helpful glossary of key terms and theorists, this accessible guide is essential reading for students and professionals in social theory, sociology, philosophy, cultural studies, women’s studies and politics.