Theory and Practice in Sociology

Theory and Practice in Sociology aims to provide students (and tutors) with a comprehensive, clear and accessible introduction to the different methods and practice of social research and the main theoretical approaches in sociology. By covering both research methods and theory, students and tutors have a text that examines the two areas that are generally compulsory, core elements of sociology undergraduate degrees. Sociological methods and theories - in some guise (such as sociological analysis; methods of research in sociology; sociological knowledge and practice) -are invariably compulsory parts of level 2 (usually year 2) programmes in sociology. And, if not compulsory, there are modules or courses on methods and theories in all such degree programmes.

Theory and Practice in Sociology reviews and examines ideas, issues and arguments in greater depth than is possible through the summaries provided in specific chapters in large, all-encompassing sociology textbooks. It provides more detailed and fuller examples and case studies of specific methodological and theoretical approaches; and an opportunity for students to reflect on these. While each of the two main areas - methods and theories - could be covered in separate texts, and while the two areas are distinct and we would not look for artificial links between them for the sake of it, covering both in one book enables regular cross-referencing between practice and theory - with particular studies referred to in one section re-examined from a range of theoretical and methodological viewpoints in different parts of the book. It also enables students to get a fuller flavour of original arguments than they can from general introductory texts.