Description
Book SynopsisA lucid account of Theodor Adorno's perspectives on major components of sociology, including empirical and theoretical research. Matthias Benzer discusses several of Adorno's inquiries into specific sociological topics including sexual taboos, prejudice and aspects of daily life. This book will interest students and academics wishing to understand Adorno's sociological thinking.
Trade Review'The work of Theodor Adorno is a major influence in several disciplines - but surprisingly marginal in sociology. This is a loss, because Adorno's work is rich with insight. Matthias Benzer not only makes Adorno's sometimes recondite writings clear, he shows the broad sociological perspective that informs his work.' Craig Calhoun, President, Social Science Research Council and University Professor of the Social Sciences, New York University
'A comprehensive, subtle exploration of Adorno's sociology. Benzer offers an illuminating study of Adorno's writings on a wide range of methodological and theoretical issues with riveting discussion of metaphysical experiences that he believed were untainted by an otherwise totally socialized, administered world.' George Cavalletto, Professor, City University of New York, and author of Crossing the Psycho-Social Divide: Freud, Weber, Adorno and Elias (2007).
'A tremendous book which brings Adorno's sociology to life and subjects it to careful analysis as never before in the English speaking world. Benzer has produced a work of real importance.' Nick Crossley, Professor of Sociology, University of Manchester
'Benzer has provided us with a welcome, lucid and critical monograph, one that presents us with a much overdue stimulating exploration of Adorno's sociology, a basic component of any critical theory of society. This volume should be essential reading for those looking for a new and exciting analysis of one of the key figures in the tradition of critical social theory.' David Frisby, Emeritus Professor, London School of Economics
'This book does an excellent job in clarifying Adorno's sociological approach in all its complexity.' LSE Review of Books
Table of ContentsIntroduction; 1. Nothing under the sun; 2. Sociological material; 3. Sociological reflection; 4. The socio-critical dimension; 5. The sociological text; 6. Sociology and the non-social; Conclusion.
