The Art of Social Theory

A practical guide to the art of theorizing in the social sciences

In the social sciences today, students are taught theory by reading and analyzing the works of Karl Marx, Max Weber, and other foundational figures of the discipline. What they rarely learn, however, is how to actually theorize. The Art of Social Theory is a practical guide to doing just that.

In this one-of-a-kind user's manual for social theorists, Richard Swedberg explains how theorizing occurs in what he calls the context of discovery, a process in which the researcher gathers preliminary data and thinks creatively about it using tools such as metaphor, analogy, and typology. He guides readers through each step of the theorist's art, from observation and naming to concept formation and explanation. To theorize well, you also need a sound knowledge of existing social theory. Swedberg introduces readers to the most important theories and concepts, and discusses how to go about mastering them. If you can think, you can also learn to theorize. This book shows you how.

Concise and accessible, The Art of Social Theory features helpful examples throughout, and also provides practical exercises that enable readers to learn through doing.

Author: Richard Swedberg
Publisher: Princeton University Press
Published: 09/01/2015
Pages: 288
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 8.40h x 5.50w x 0.80d
ISBN: 9780691168135

About the Author
Richard Swedberg is professor of sociology at Cornell University. His books include "Tocqueville's Political Economy," "Principles of Economic Sociology," and "Max Weber and the Idea of Economic Sociology" (all Princeton).