The Rise of Modern Society: Aspects of the Social and Political Development of the West

What is the sociological theory of industrialism? How far do the actual histories and practices of industrial societies fit this theory? The studies in this volume examine many of the economic, social, political and cultural changes caused by the industrialization of society. They look at continuities and discontinuities through pre-industrial, industrial and post-industrial societies before considering particular aspects: for example, the shortcomings of the Marxist theory of class are highlighted by their application to nineteenth-century English society; the theory of revolution is examined for its relevance to the conditions of advanced industrial societies; the changing meanings and changing practices of work and employment are traced; and the current problems of Britain are used to point the way to the future of other societies. These essays, by a noted social theorist, should be of value to those concerned with the history and future of modern society.