Reading Talcott Parsons

Addressing the neglect of the work of Talcott Parsons, the complexity of whose thought and the opacity of whose writing style can prove daunting, this book provides a comprehensible account of the major theoretical accomplishments in his work and the reasons for which his legacy remains important to contemporary sociological debates. With attention to the unification of theoretical concepts for the humanities, basic methodological issues such as empiricism and functional analysis, the definition and status of culture, the interaction between the individual and society, and the question of modernity and societal change, Reading Talcott Parsons: A Re-Assessment of his Legacy offers an orientation in the work of one of the twentieth century's most important sociologists and explores the reason for which his contributions to the discipline are of enduring importance. As such it will appeal to scholars and students across the social sciences with interests in social theory, social research methodology and the history of sociology.