The Art of Sociological Argument

'A lively comparison of the contrasting argumentative styles of key sociologists that should also appeal to both teachers and students as a novel introductory social theory text.' - David Jary, Visiting Research Professor, The Open University 'This excellent and refreshing book presents sociology as a dynamic undertaking, encouraging its student readers to think of themselves as participants in the debate. Bringing classical and contemporary theory together in an exemplary fashion, it deserves a wide and receptive audience.' - Professor John Holmwood, University of Sussex

This book explores the ways in which sociological arguments are constructed and presented, looking at what can be learned from the contrasting styles of sociologists working in different periods and theoretical traditions.This book explores the ways in which sociological arguments are constructed and presented, looking at what can be learned from the contrasting styles of sociologists working in different periods and theoretical traditions. Fundamental debates in the discipline are addressed, such as 'can sociology provide final answers?' and 'how far is detachment feasible or desirable?'. Finally, the book considers the practical significance which thinking about styles of argument has for all students of sociology.