Talcott Parsons (1904-79) is widely regarded as one of the most important sociologists of the twentieth century. His work has been influential both inside and outside America. He made major contributions to the history of sociology, the sociology of knowledge, medical sociology and sociology of social institutions. In addition his theoretical writing, although still the subject of much controversy, is recognized as reformulating the grounds of debate by giving a new direction to sociological enquiry. The articles assembled here are organized into 85 chapters, and cover each of the major...

First published in 1995. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

Focuses on the analysis of the relations of power and knowledge and modes of objectification through which human beings are made subjects; and addresses controversial issues concerning the state and resistance to power.