Classical Sociological Theory

Classical Sociological Theory, 4th Edition, gathers core texts to examine the theoretical origins of sociology and their ongoing relevance to contemporary debate. The reader introduces foundational perspectives on modern social life through curated primary sources.

Edited by Craig Calhoun, Joseph Gerteis, James Moody, Steven Pfaff, and Indermohan Virk, the volume addresses early social inquiry from Enlightenment thought and Alexis de Tocqueville to prominent theorists such as Karl Marx, Émile Durkheim, and Max Weber.

Introductory commentary accompanies the selections to provide historical and intellectual background. The readings balance conceptual depth with accessibility for students in sociology and related social sciences.