Elwell, Macrosociology - The Study Of Sociocultural Systems

Abstract

Frank Elwell's Macrosociology is a rare find because it is well written and accessible, yet treats its subject, sociological theory, in the proper manner. Elwell's choice of theoretical traditions covers the "big three" classical thinkers-Marx, Durkheim, Weber-but the readers might find themselves pleasantly surprised by the inclusion of Robert Malthus. The book is broken down into sections based on these four essential theorists, with additional chapters in each section covering thinkers whose ideas build upon or complement the classics. For instance, to Weber's treatment of rationalization, Elwell adds George Ritzer's recent and popular notion of "McDonalidization"-an idea that brings familiarity to a concept otherwise intimidating to many students.