This text covers new and emerging aspects of sociological theory and examines the significant contributions of both modern and founding theorists. Seven sections present detailed analyses of key theories and paradigms, including functionalism, evolutionary theory, conflict theory, critical theory, exchange theory, interactionist theory, and structuralism. The Seventh Edition is a less encyclopedic text than the Sixth Edition; despite the in-depth discussions of theorists and their contributions to the field, the text is concise and focused and is appropriate for use in nine- and ten-week courses.