In a time of rapid and unprecedented social change, the concepts we use to make sense of the ways in which young people understand and interact with the world are very much under the microscope. Some researchers argue that we need to reinvigorate our conceptual repertoire, while others argue that our theoretical tool box still has the capacity to…

As indicated by Deaux and Burke (this volume), sociology and psychology have shared a tradition of discourse allowing social psychologists to build upon each other's ideas. A conversation between social identity theory and identity theory was initiated fifteen years ago and addressed the similarities and differences between these theories. This…

In this theoretical essay, my primary task is to develop a methodology for engaging the conceptual normativity, or common sense ideas, at work in the popular discursive practices of modern society. To do so, I will draw upon theories associated with continental philosophy, Deweyan pragmatism, and sociological theory that trace their lineages to…

This paper provides a reply to Woodman's (2009) recent argument that youth studies often incorrectly attribute the concept of "choice biographies" to the work of Ulrich Beck. Drawing heavily on Beck's own words, this paper contends that youth researchers might not be making this association unduly. Consideration is paid to some conceptual issues…

Contends that there have been three stages or eras of social science: the philosophic, the scientific, and the as yet unnamed present era. Maintains that the three eras match, in chronological development, the successive periods of Marxian thought and the three different views of utopia offered by Thomas More, Friedrich Engels, and Karl Mannheim.…

In De la Division du Travail Social, Durkheim's causal explanation for secular increases in the division of labor and the differentiation of social structure is flawed. His metatheoretical concerns expressed in the critique of utilitarian social theory flawed his contributions to a causal explanation of social differentiation. (Author/AM)

Reviews causes of current despair within the field of sociology. Maintains that further creative, theoretical work is likely to happen in such areas as the micro-macro connection, an integrated theory of organizations, networks and markets, and sex and gender. Advocates increased efforts to relate empirical research and small-scale theories to the…

This essay summarizes how distinct sociological traditions account for cycles of censorship. Positivist or functionalist modes of analysis are contrasted with the stances of symbolic interactionist researchers. Understanding of cycles in the production of obscenity and censorship is needed to discover appropriate social action. (CJH)

Proposes that sexuality is universally linked to the social structure in three specific areas: (a) marital jealousy, (b) gender role power, and (c) beliefs about normality. Variations and interrelations of these three linkages are explained by the logical structure of this sociological theory. The relevance of this theory for the applied…

Describes paths in research and theory development which will reconstitute the relevance of each for the other and sociology for society. Maintains that a theory of purposive action for individuals must be the foundation for macrosocial theory. (JDH)

Contends that Benjamin Bowser's essay (title cited above) contains conceptual and factual errors on such matters as the relationship of African slavery to European economic expansion; influence of Social Darwinism; and the role of Robert Park, W.E.B. DuBois, E. Franklin Frazier, and other Black historians in sociological research in this country.…

Comparing human ecological and Marxist approaches discloses numerous parallels and significant differences. Both take a holistic approach and emphasize technology, but ecological theory emphasizes the openness of systems. Gaps in ecological theory are revealed, and some research problems to close the gaps in theory are presented. (Author/IS)

Willard Waller fused social theory and field observation techniques. In work still relevant 55 years after its appearance, he viewed school in its societal context. This study develops a theory of schooling based on his work and that of his successors. (LHW)

Argues for the incorporation of classical liberal theory into undergraduate sociology theory courses. Urges that liberalism be contextualized in relationship to its intellectual predecessors. Suggests that understanding classical liberalism enhances understanding of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber. Recommends works that can be used as reading…

Discusses the notions of distance and place in relation to distance education, using social scientific theories of distance. A selection of the work of geographers, historians, and sociologists concerning theories of distance and place are critically related to the administration, management, and practices of distance education. (20 references)…