This book explores the ways in which sociological arguments are constructed and presented, looking at what can be learned from the contrasting styles of sociologists working in different periods and theoretical traditions. Fundamental debates in the discipline are addressed, such as "can sociology provide final answers?" and "how far is detachment feasible or desirable?." The practical significance of thinking about styles of argument for studying sociology is considered.

This book is concerned with the significance of time in work and everyday life. The contributors are among the foremost authorities in the field, and their up-to-date contributions consider the changing social meanings that time has in work, leisure and everyday routines. Together they provide a combination of theoretical and empirically-based approaches that reveal the social significance of time in all aspects of everyday lives.

Recent developments have made obsolete the division of the globe into three worlds of capitalist, state socialist and underdeveloped countries. This book traces the interconnectedness of the 'disorganisation' of capitalism in the industrialised west, the transformation of former state socialist societies, and the divergent fortunes of third world countries. It argues that comparative sociology continues to have relevance in the age of globalisation and provides a framework within which these developments can be placed in their proper perspective.

Patterns of household and family life are changing radically leading sociologists to develop new conceptualizations and understandings of the relationships involved. This book examines the character of these changes, exploring the growing diversity there is in people's domestic circumstances. It is particularly concerned with the blurred boundaries between households and families, and the tensions that can arise in the solidarities and obligations experienced as household and family processes unfold.

Drawing on recent developments within the sociology of family life, this book examines family connection and solidarity within different stepfamily networks, focusing on relationships from a kinship perspective and using case studies of people's experiences to explore how family connection is constructed within different stepfamilies.

Designed for undergraduate courses, this book looks at the sociology of community in contemporary Britain. The book surveys the growing literature on the nature of local social relationships, drawing on a range of empirical and theoretical work.

Examining the role of home and family in the latter part of the 20th century, this book covers such subjects as the single parent, institutions and homes, the role of the mother in the family, and domestic architecture and domestic life.

Revisiting divisions of labour is a reflection on the making of a modern sociological classic text and its enduring influence on the discipline and beyond. Ray Pahl's 1984 book is distinctive in the sustained impact it has had on how sociologists think about, research and report on the changing nature of work and domestic life. In this timely revisiting of a landmark project, excerpts from the original are interspersed with contributions from leading researchers reflecting on the book and its effects in the ensuing three decades. The book will be of interest to researchers, students and...

First published in 1994. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.