What Use is Sociology?: Conversations with Michael Hviid Jacobsen and Keith Tester

Zygmunt Bauman,Michael Hviid Jacobsen,Keith Tester

What Use is Sociology?: Conversations with Michael Hviid Jacobsen and Keith Tester
Format
Paperback
Publisher
Polity Press
Country
United Kingdom
Published
8 November 2013
Pages
180
ISBN
9780745671253

What Use is Sociology?: Conversations with Michael Hviid Jacobsen and Keith Tester

Zygmunt Bauman,Michael Hviid Jacobsen,Keith Tester

What’s the use of sociology? The question has been asked often enough and it leaves a lingering doubt in the minds of many. At a time when there is widespread scepticism about the value of sociology and of the social sciences generally, this short book by one of the world’s leading thinkers offers a passionate, engaging and important statement of the need for sociology.

In a series of conversations with Michael Hviid Jacobsen and Keith Tester, Zygmunt Bauman explains why sociology is necessary if we hope to live fully human lives. But the kind of sociology he advocates is one which sees ‘use’ as more than economic success and knowledge as more than the generation of facts. Bauman makes a powerful case for the practice of sociology as an ongoing dialogue with human experience, and in so doing he issues a call for us all to start questioning the common sense of our everyday lives. He also offers the clearest statement yet of the principles which inform his own work, reflecting on his life and career and on the role of sociology in our contemporary liquid-modern world.

This book stands as a testimony to Bauman’s belief in the enduring relevance of sociology. But it is also a call to us all to start questioning the world in which we live and to transform ourselves from being the victims of circumstance into the makers of our own history. For that, at the end of the day, is the use of sociology.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in 10-14 days

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.