Description
Book SynopsisExplores the accomplishments of the golden age of "macrohistory," the sociologically informed analysis of long-term patterns of political, economic, and social change. The topics range from the Marxian-inspired theory of revolutions to the roots of the Holocaust.
Trade Review"Given that a short review cannot do justice to the complexity and richness of this compelling book, it must suffice to say that its most innovative and exciting aspect is Collins' discussion of the still under-theorized dimension of democratic modernity. This is especially the case when his discussion is combined with his reflections on ethnic change." --
Journal of the History of Behavioral SciencesTable of ContentsList of figures; Introduction: the golden age of macrohistorical sociology; 1. Maturation of the state-centered theory of revolution and ideology; 2. The geopolitical basis of revolution: the prediction of the Soviet collapse; 3. 'Balkanization' or 'Americanization': a geopolitical theory of ethnic change; 4. Democratization from the outside in: a geopolitical theory of collegial power; 5. German-bashing and the theory of democratic modernization; 6. Market dynamics as the engine of historical change; 7. An Asian route to capitalism; Appendices; Notes; Bibliography; Index.
