Self, Symbols and Society: Classic Readings in Social Psychology - Softcover

This judicious selection from the classics overcomes the conventional, but misleading division between individual and society through a sociological social psychology. The volume provides a clear and definitive answer to the basic question: How do individuals and society relate? As an excellent introduction to the study of society through the dual traditions of symbolic interactionism, and personality and social structure, Self, Symbols, and Society uniquely combines selections from Europe and America to provide the student with an appreciation of the scope and depth of sociology and social psychology. A singular achievement. -- Brian Turner, Cambridge University At last, there is a reader that offers students and professionals alike some of the key readings of the social psychologists who have set much of the theoretical agenda for sociology over the last one hundred years. The great strength of the book is making many of the classic statements on micro-social processes accessible to students. This book will prove very useful in undergraduate and graduate courses on social psychology, theory, and micro-social processes. -- Jonathan Turner, University of California, Riverside

Students of social psychology can read in this new text original writings assembled from the founders of sociology in the nineteenth century to the latest influential works by contemporary sociologists today. Rousseau's introductory sections provide biographical and theoretical context that bridges the intellectual developments in each chapter and orients students to the topics and themes ahead. The classic essays comprising this book are presented chronologically, but fall into two major branches of study: symbolic interaction and personality and social structure. This book shows the significant contributions made in these areas and demonstrates how these two branches share a common history. Together the readings lead students to a greater realization that there is much potential power in the hands of individuals. The value of studying social psychology is in acquiring a greater appreciation of not only of oneself, but also of how one's behavior is affected by, and affects, social interaction and the larger society. Readers can gain from this book a greater appreciation of social history, deeper self-knowledge, and a heightened sense of civic concern and responsibility.