Talcott Parsons: An Introduction

(Paperback)

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Talcott Parsons (1902-1979) is one of the most influential and best-known sociologists of the past century. This introduction dwells on Parsons' conceptual apparatus and offers a compendium of his research. His works are subdivided into three distinct periods, each characterized by specific concepts and theoretical developments. Parsons utilized his conceptual and theoretical frameworks to conduct several studies, which are presented here in detail. These studies focus on major sociological themes, such as power and influence, social stratification, ethnic groups, and the American educational system. Segre also closely evaluates the numerous receptions of Parsons' writings. Particular attention is devoted to the controversies and divergent interpretations his works have inspired. Throughout Talcott Parsons: An Introduction, Segre skillfully examines Parsons' life work and critical reception-both before and after his death-with a straightforward and precise approach.

Reviews

The author has succeeded in producing an orderly presentation of a complex subject and in stimulating readers to pursue the study of Parsons in greater depth. -- Antonino Salamone, professor of sociology, University of Milan

Author Bio

Sandro Segre received his Ph.D. in sociology from New York University in 1978. He is a professor of sociology and sociological theory at the University of Genoa, Italy. He is the author of Talcott Parsons. Un'introduzione (Roma: Carocci, 2009), A Weberian Analysis of Business Groups and Financial Markets: Trade Relations in Taiwan and Korea and Some Major Stock Exchanges (London: Ashgate, 2008), and numerous scholarly articles.