Publisher's Synopsis
Contested Knowledge has established itself as a leading text that brings social theory into the present day by providing the most up–to–date perspectives on social theory by one of the most important thinkers of our time, Steven Seidman. The book tracks the work of the major figures in the field, from the classical sociologists Durkheim, Marx, Weber to contemporary theorists, including Giddens, Foucault, Bourdieu, and Judith Butler. Through exploring contemporary social theories and movements (including feminism, poststructuralism, African–American thought, and queer theory), the author presents a compelling new approach to the tradition of sociological theory and its established canon.
Contested Knowledge combines social analysis and moral advocacy, showing how social theory can and does and sometimes doesn t work within the public and political sphere. This third edition has been reorganized to be even more accessible for the student. The book now includes sections on white studies, masculinity studies, critical heterosexuality studies, and a section on Empire. There is also a new chapter on social theory today, as well as invaluable section introductions, and 33 short biographies on major social theorists.
