Discover the profound insights in "What Makes a Social Crisis?" by Jeffrey Alexander, a groundbreaking work that revolutionizes the understanding of social crises. This academic book delves into the intricate relationship between societal strains and the civil sphere, arguing that crises are not merely products of objective stressors but rather arise from the dynamics of discourse and institutional responses. Through detailed case studies—from the church paedophilia crisis to the impactful #MeToo movement—Alexander provides a compelling analysis of how social justice aspirations can ignite widespread anguish and challenges to democratic life. With 180 pages of rigorous sociological theory, this book is essential for students and experts in sociology, politics, and social sciences. Gain a deeper understanding of how institutional elites can transform into perceived perpetrators and how the civil sphere's demands for reforms can catalyze resistance and societal backlash. Be part of the critical conversation surrounding social justice and institutional accountability with this essential read for scholars and practitioners alike. As a BRAND NEW edition published by John Wiley & Sons (UK) in 2019, this book includes the latest insights in the field. Free shipping is provided on this item, with delivery expected within 6 weeks. Please note, once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Get your copy today and be at the forefront of sociological discussions.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781509538256
Year: 2019
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons (UK)
Pages: 180


Description:


In this book Jeffrey Alexander develops a new sociological theory of social crisis and applies it to a wide range of cases, from the church paedophilia crisis to the #MeToo movement. He argues that crises are triggered not by objective social strains but by the discourse and institutions of the civil sphere. When strains become subject to the utopian aspirations of the civil sphere, there emerges widespread anguish about social justice and the future of democratic life. Once admired institutional elites come to be represented as perpetrators and the civil sphere becomes legally and organizationally intrusive, demanding repairs in the name of civil purification. Resisting such repair, institutional elites foment backlash, and a war of the spheres ensues 


This major new work by one of the world™s leading social theorists will be of great interest to students and scholars in sociology, politics, and the social sciences generally.