The art of social theory

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Machine generated contents note: -- Introduction: Why Theorize and Can You Learn to Do It? 1 -- Part 1: How to Theorize -- Chapter 1. Starting Anew 13 -- Chapter 2. Social Observation 29 -- Chapter 3. Naming, Concept, and Typology 52 -- Chapter 4. Analogy, Metaphor, and Pattern 80 -- Chapter 5. Coming Up with an Explanation 98 -- Part 2: Preparing for Theorizing -- Chapter 6. Heuristics 127 -- Chapter 7. Practical Exercises 146 -- Chapter 8. The Role of Theory 169 -- Chapter 9. Imagination and Art 188 -- Chapter 10. Summary and More 210 -- Appendix: How to Theorize according to Charles S. Peirce 230 -- Acknowledgments 249 -- Notes 251 -- References 253 -- Index 279.

"In the social sciences today, students are taught theory by reading and analyzing the works of Karl Marx, Max Weber, and other foundational figures of the discipline. What they rarely learn, however, is how to actually theorize. The Art of Social Theory is a practical guide to doing just that.In this one-of-a-kind user's manual for social theorists, Richard Swedberg explains how theorizing occurs in what he calls the context of discovery, a process in which the researcher gathers preliminary data and thinks creatively about it using tools such as metaphor, analogy, and typology. He guides readers through each step of the theorist's art, from observation and naming to concept formation and explanation. To theorize well, you also need a sound knowledge of existing social theory. Swedberg introduces readers to the most important theories and concepts, and discusses how to go about mastering them. If you can think, you can also learn to theorize. This book shows you how.Concise and accessible, The Art of Social Theory features helpful examples throughout, and also provides practical exercises that enable readers to learn through doing"--