The third edition of Peter Kivisto's comprehensive collection of student-accessible, primary-source readings provides students an opportunity to experience "first-hand" a broad range of orientations shaping sociological theory today.

Its seminal writings from key theorists were selected for their high degree of relevance and accessibility to undergraduates. The readings help students make the connection across schools of thought-revealing that theories are always about something --as well as demonstrating the roles theories play in interpreting our social world.

Brief, thought-provoking introductions frame each article in a larger context and alert students to key points. These introductions serve as a useful "road map" as students travel through the diverse views and continuing debates that make the study of social theory an exciting adventure. These introductions also identify and explain central issues and relationships among the topics covered.