Nick Crossley argues for a properly 'relational' approach to sociology by unpacking & evaluating key concepts in the relational 'toolbox' - interaction, relations, networks and power - linking abstract & theoretical debates on the nature of relational thought to concrete concerns of method & research practice.

A comprehensive overview of the key sociological approaches to the study of social movements. The author argues that each of these approaches makes an important contribution to our understanding of social movements but that none is adequate on its own. In response he argues for a new approach which draws together key insights within the solid foundations of Pierre Bourdieu's social theory of practice. This new approach transcends the barriers which still often divide European and North American perspectives of social movements, and also those which divide recent approaches form the older...

Resistance and social movements in mental health have been important in shaping current practice in both mental health and psychiatry. Contesting Psychiatry, focusing largely on the UK, examines the history of resistance to psychiatry between 1950 and 2000. Building on the author s extensive research, the book provides an empirical account and exploration of the key features including:

• an account of the key social movements and organizations who have contested psychiatry over the last fifty years
• the theorization of resistance to psychiatry which might apply...

'Clear and accessible - Key Concepts in Critical Social Theory makes difficult ideas available to an undergraduate audience' -Larry Ray, Professor of Sociology, University of Kent

The SAGE Key Concepts series provides students with accessible and authoritative knowledge of the essential topics in a variety of disciplines. Cross-referenced throughout, the format encourages critical evaluation through understanding.

Written by experienced and respected academics, the books are indispensable study aids and guides to...