This ambitious two-volume handbook of social theory consists of forty original contributions. The researchers take stock of the state of social theory and its relationship to the canon, exploring such topics as the nature, purpose, and meaning of social theory; the significance of the classics; the impact of specific individual and theory schools; and more. Both volumes reflect a mixture of what intellectual historian Morton White distinguished as the 'annalist of ideas' and the 'analyst of ideas,' locating theoretical thought within the larger socio-historical context that shaped it - within the terrain of the sociology of knowledge. Exploring the contemporary relevance of theories in a manner that is historically situated and sensitive, this impressive and comprehensive set will likely stand the test of time.

‘For the quality of its contributors (the highest) and the range of its contributions (the most diverse), there has never been a theory collection that comes anywhere close to the achievement of this Cambridge Handbook. Peter Kivisto deserves our recognition and our gratitude.'

Jeffrey Alexander

‘Social theory is undergoing a period of rapid change and expansion, and Peter Kivisto has produced an accessible set of introductions to both classic and new topics, with a complement of star contributors. This will be an essential source for students as well as sociologists who need an understanding of the key issues and literatures as they stand today.'

Stephen Turner - University of South Florida

‘A first rate resource featuring thoughtful articles on key thinkers and aspects of sociological theory. Taken together, the contributions offer a rare and comprehensive panorama opening up to all subfields within sociology.'

Thomas Faist - Professor of Sociology, Bielefeld University

‘Social theory is a fascinating intellectual maze. The Cambridge Handbook of Social Theory provides all of us with a reliable map, a remarkable achievement. Systematic, precise and ecumenical, this is the guide we were waiting for.'

Giuseppe Sciortino - Università di Trento