Wayward Puritans: A Study in the Sociology of Deviance

Kai T. Erikson

ISBN 10: 0471244279 / ISBN 13: 9780471244271

Published by Wiley, John Sons, 1969

Seller Inventory # 0471244279-4-18738723

Synopsis:

"Kai T. Erikson uses the Puritan settlement in 17th-century Machusetts as a setting in which to examine several ideas about deviant behavior in society. Combining sociology & history, he draws on Bay Colony records to illustrate the way in which deviant behavior fits in the texture of social life generally. The main argument of Wayward Puritans is that deviant forms of behavior are often a valuable resource in society, providing a point of contrast, which is necessary for the maintenance of a coherent social order. His deep appreciation of the ritual dimensions of social life remains a refreshing alternative to rational-choice reductionism. & for social scientists who have recently discovered symbolic boundaries, the idea was already here. My advice to each new cohort of aspiring social observers: read Wayward Puritans.”--Robert Wuthnow, Princeton Univ. (edited) "Wayward Puritans is a true sociological clic. Kai Erikson has produced a brilliant theory of social deviance as well as one of the most remarkable attempts to identify boundaries as a critical sociological phenomenon. One of the most spectacular products of the Durkheimian tradition, this is sociology at its best.”--Eviatar Zerubavel, Rutgers Univ. “Sociological clics speak to all people at all times about the social condition of humanity. For almost 40 years, Wayward Puritans has thrown light on that condition. In the new millennium we need that light, for our moral boundaries have shifted radically. Kai Erikson's clic helps explain those shifts, &, explaining them, relates the state of our society to our own moral dilemmas. It is a great book that speaks to us more loudly & clearly today than ever before.”--Barry Schwartz, Univ. of Georgia “Boundary crises come in all flavors. This book describes both the Puritan instance & the general theory. Erikson came up with a fundamental discovery of human life.

Bibliographic Details

Title: Wayward Puritans: A Study in the Sociology ...
Publisher: Wiley, John Sons
Publication Date: 1969
Binding: Paperback
Condition: Fair