Core Sociological Dichotomies
- Chris Jenks - Brunel University, UK (1996-2006)
It consists of a series of specially commissioned chapters around binary or dichotomous themes. Although many sociologists are critical of dichotomous models of sociological theory and research, the device crops up again and again in the history and practice of the subject. Jenks and his colleagues use the dichotomies to situate students in current sociological arguments and topical debates. For example, by examining contradictory pairs of concepts like structure/agency, local/global, continuity/change, students are introduced to alternative explanations for aspects of human conduct over a whole series of issues.
`Chris Jenks and his colleagues from the Department of Sociology at Goldsmiths College, London, have compiled an impressive contribution to a growing body of literature associated with the relatively recent resurgence of interest in sociology and sociological theory.... All in all this is a successful text that will almost certainly be extensively used by undergraduates and their teachers. Jenks and his colleagues have produced what amounts to a high-quality introduction to significant empirical concerns in sociology, and to the core theoretical concepts and themes that relate closely to the revitalization and development of the discipline.' - British Journal of Sociology
For year 1 this was not at their level and I found learners struggling. For year 2 and above this may be used as an additonal resource alongside a handbook
Wealth of material covered from across the discipline, but comprehensively organised into abstract themes which break down relevant theories/concepts relating to larger ideas within our culture module. In particular: Culture/Nature; Modernity/Postmodernity; High/Mass, and; Work/Leisure.
This is a good resourse text for social science students. It is similar in style and content to a dictionary and thus a good place for students to go for quick and direct definitions and meanings of key sociological concepts.
