Introducing the founders of sociological theory - from Marx, Weber, Durkheim and Martineau through to Simmel, DuBois, Mead and others - this accessible textbook locates each thinker within their own social, political and historical context. By doing so, it helps readers to understand the development of central sociological concepts and how they can help us understand the contemporary world.

The book includes:

• Lively biographical sections to help readers get to know each thinker
• Clear and easy-to-understand accounts of each theorist's arguments - and the most common criticisms
• Key concept boxes highlighting the most influential ideas

This comprehensive, enlightening text brings the rich and diverse field of classical sociological theory to life.

Steven Loyal is an Associate Professor in Sociology at University College Dublin