Daniel Chaffee

This book is the first to critically compare Giddens and Castells, two of the leading social theorists. By reviewing key themes and central dynamics in their work, Chaffee critically examines the intricacies of the impact of new communication technologies and globalization. Giddens is underrepresented in informational studies and Castells is under-theorized. The critical combination allows the development of a straightforward, but nuanced appreciation of contemporary society as well as the strengths and blindspots of their social theories. Giddens and Castells have been at forefront of contemporary social theory grappling with the social transformations around globalization and new communication technologies and globalization. One of the key strengths of this book is that Giddens and Castells are public intellectuals as well as respected academics. This book reviews their contributions to contemporary social issues including climate change, political trust, and the recent and continuing global financial crisis.

Charles Lemert is one of the most renowned critics of social theory and theorists today. The editors of this book have offered and contextualised many of his best essays and situated them against the backdrop of American sociology. The breadth of Lemert's work doesn't stop at an academic engagement with theoretical debates such as 'globalisation' or 'postmodernism,' but cuts right to the heart of abiding social issues. His work is focused and continues to probe pressing questions such as the rise of vulnerabilities in an era of new capitalism. By weaving together personal narrative, research, lucid explanations, and a dynamic engagement with social theory of old and new, his unique prose renders accessible complex theoretical debates.

Charles Lemert is one of the most renowned critics of social theory and theorists today. The editors of this book have offered and contextualised many of his best essays and situated them against the backdrop of American sociology. The breadth of Lemert's work doesn't stop at an academic engagement with theoretical debates such as 'globalisation' or 'postmodernism,' but cuts right to the heart of abiding social issues. His work is focused and continues to probe pressing questions such as the rise of vulnerabilities in an era of new capitalism. By weaving together personal narrative, research, lucid explanations, and a dynamic engagement with social theory of old and new, his unique prose renders accessible complex theoretical debates.