Herbert Spencer sought to unify all of the sciences and ethics under a common set of theoretical principles loosely derived from the physics of his time and outlined in First Principles (1862). The Principles of Sociology was a later work in Spencer's grand scheme, with the first installments appearing in 1874 and continuing until 1896. The re ...Read MoreHerbert Spencer sought to unify all of the sciences and ethics under a common set of theoretical principles loosely derived from the physics of his time and outlined in First Principles (1862). The Principles of Sociology was a later work in Spencer's grand scheme, with the first installments appearing in 1874 and continuing until 1896. The re-issue of the complete volumes of this great work will stimulate renewed interest in Spencer's sociology, not just as an historical curiosity, but as a body of work that can still inform sociology. Indeed, at a time when it seems sociology has mined its classics for all the gold they contain, Spencer's work provides a "mother lode" of new treasures. Sociologists and others will be surprised at the profound insights they will find in The Principles of Sociology. This complete three volume set of The Principles is divided into eight "Parts." Part I sets up the approach for the rest of the volumes. Here, Spencer distinguishes the inorganic, organic, and superorganic realms of the universe, with the most important comparison being the differences between the organic and superorganic. The most well-known sections appear in Part II on "The Introductions of Sociology" where the similarities and differences between superorganic and organic bodies are introduced. However, there is much more to Part II because here the basic theory is developed, which still informs contemporary sociology. Approximately two thirds of The Principles of Sociology is dedicated to analysis of human institutional systems. In these pages, which comprise Parts III-VIII of The Principles, Spencer mobilizes even more data to develop specific principles about the operation of institutional systems. The Principles of Sociology is filled with insights and still worthwhile principles on the dynamics of human organization. Portrayals of Spencer as a naive functionalist and advocate of laissez-faire are inaccurate and unfair, as these volumes demonstrate. Spencer presents us with a set of principles about the operation of human societies. This book will be essential to sociologists, and others professionally interested in social science theory and the history of ideas.Read Less
Ecclesiastical Institutions: being part VI. Clean pages. Front and Back covers are detached but included. Backstrip casing is missing. Covers and backstrip are worn and marked. This book has hardback covers. Ex-library. With usual stamps and markings. in poor condition, suitable as a reading copy. No dust jacket.
Very Good- Book Spine strip is faded; minor exterior wear/marks; faint dampstain along side of the page edges. Late 19th century work on sociology, discussing the data of sociology, the inductions of sociology, and the domestic relations. Volume VI of Spencer's "A System of Synthetic Philosophy".
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Good+ Volume II-1: Part IV, Ceremonial Institutions and Part V, Political Institutions. 3/4 leather, with evenly sunned spine, as pictured. Marbled boards. Shelfwear is very light. A nice copy! Ships from Dinkytown in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
ISBN. Hardback. VOLUME TWO ONLY. Later printing. No dustjacket; green and brown leather covered boards with marbled paper on front and back, gold gilt lettering on spine. Slight spine fade; some wear to corners and edges of boards; minor wear to corners and edges of pages; previous owner's name written on front pastedown (1/2"x3"); minor stains on front endpaper and pastedown; minor browning and dustsoiling throughout; otherwise tight, sound and unmarked in Good condition.
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