Description
Book Synopsisaeo Joas is one of Germanya s leading social theorists today. aeo This book is a major study and re--evaluation of the theories of action. aeo As well as surveying past and current debates, it also offers a new theory of the creative character of human activity.
Trade Review"A masterful comprehensive rethinking of the theory of action that interweaves sociological and philosophical motifs. Joas sharply criticizes prevailing understandings of "rational" and "normatively oriented" concepts of action. He explores the fundamentals of a theory of creative action that draws its inspiration from the pragmatic investigations of John Dewey and George Herbert Mead, but systematically develops their insights in novel ways. The scope, insight, and lucidity of Joas's subtle argument are truly impressive. This is an exemplar of sociological imagination at its best."
Richard J. Bernstein, New School for Social Research "This is a most outstanding book: erudite, profound, and inclusive on a most important subject. A must for scholars in many fields." Amitai Etzioni, author of The Spirit of Community
"This deeply serious and intelligent book embodies sociological theorizing at its best. Joas tackles the most difficult theoretical, empirical, and moral questions of the day, and he comes up with answers that compel attention. The Creativity of Action is a refreshing antidote to the skepticism about social science theory that marks our age." Jeffrey Alexander, University of California Los Angeles
Table of ContentsPreface.
Introduction.
1. The Emergence of the Theory of Action.
2. Metaphors of Creativity.
3. Situation - Corporeality - Sociality The Fundamentals of a Theory of the Creativity of Action.
4. Creative Democracy.
Notes.
Bibliography.
Index of Names.
Index of Subjects.
