Description
Book SynopsisOne of the most groundbreaking sociology texts of the 20th century, Howard S. Becker’s Outsiders revolutionized the study of social deviance.Howard S. Becker’s
Outsiders broke new ground in the early 1960s—and the ideas it proposed and problems it raised are still argued about and inspiring research internationally. In this new edition, Becker includes two lengthy essays, unpublished until now, that add fresh material for thought and discussion. “Why Was
Outsiders a Hit? Why Is It Still a Hit?” explains the historical background that made the book interesting to a new generation coming of age in the 60s and makes it of continuing interest today. “Why I Should Get No Credit For Legalizing Marijuana” examines the road to decriminalization and presents new ideas for the sociological study of public opinion.
Trade Review“A sort of Richard Feynman of the social sciences, notable for his street smarts, his informal manner, and his breezy, pungent prose style.... The influence of Becker's early work remains profound.”
– Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker“Becker is back with new reflections that take us into public opinion, the nature of knowledge, and the insides of social science history. As always, he shines with ethnography, with reflection, and in telling us how social science works – in real time, and, when it comes to it, for all time.”
– Harvey Molotch, professor of sociology at New York University“An exceptionally interesting and worthwhile contribution to the study of deviant behavior.”
– American Sociological Review
