The Anthem Companion to Niklas Luhmann

Analyses the work of one of the greatest social theorists of the twentieth century and provides the latest scholarly interpretations of a thinker who revolutionised the theoretical foundation of the discipline of sociology.

The Anthem Companion to Niklas Luhmann is a major contribution to analysing the work of one of the greatest social theorists of the twentieth century. This companion provides the latest scholarly interpretations of a thinker who revolutionised the theoretical foundation of the discipline of sociology.

The Companion contains twelve chapters written by proven experts on Luhmann’s social systems theory. Among the contributions are overviews of the development of Luhmann’s thinking, introductions to key areas of Luhmann’s theory of society and critical assessments of core concepts of his social systems theory approach. The chapters cover the main societal function systems of law, politics, the economy, science, religion and art. Among the chapters are assessments of Luhmann’s impact on debates on constitutionalism, cultural studies and critical systems theory. There are finally reflections of scholars on the way and importance of Luhmann’s thoughts for their thinking and how Luhmann’s theory has shaped their work.