Mad Hazard: A Life in Social Theory

Mad Hazard is a memoir by Stephen Turner that chronicles his career and life in social theory, showcasing how his later work on expertise, tacit knowledge, cognitive science, leadership, and liberal democracy developed out of his early interests. The book describes the institutional and personal constraints and pressures that shaped Turner's academic career, as well as the personal relationships that facilitated and shaped it. It also discusses the rebellion within sociology against the hegemonic Merton-Parsons conception of sociology and the methodological orthodoxies of the time, leading to a reassessment of the classics, science studies, and political and international relations theory.

Format: Hardback
Length: 340 pages
Publication date: 08 September 2022
Publisher: Emerald Publishing Limited

Stephen Turner's memoir, Mad Hazard, delves into his career and life, offering a captivating account of a life dedicated to social theory. The book showcases how Turner's later work on expertise, tacit knowledge, cognitive science, leadership, and liberal democracy emerged from his early interests. It provides a detailed exploration of the institutional and personal constraints and pressures that shaped Turner's academic journey, as well as the personal relationships that facilitated and influenced it.

Born and raised in the racially turbulent South Side of Chicago, Turner's childhood experiences laid the foundation for his intellectual pursuits. His fascination with social theory grew, fueled by his exposure to the war in Vietnam and the social and personal upheaval of the late 1960s. Throughout his education, Turner grappled with the challenges of navigating a world shaped by these events.

Mad Hazard traces Turner's development from a young scholar to a prominent academic figure. It delves into the rebellion within sociology against the dominant Merton-Parsons conception of the field and the methodological orthodoxies of the time. This rebellion paved the way for a discussion of the philosophy of science and social science, leading to a reassessment of the inherited view of the classics, science studies, and political and international relations theory.

The comprehensive nature of Mad Hazard allows readers to gain a deep understanding of how Turner's academic journey unfolded. It reveals an academic career that is not solely dependent on prestige and academic power, but also not untouched by hierarchy and academic politics. Through his experiences, Turner offers a unique perspective on the complexities and challenges of pursuing an intellectual life within the university.

Mad Hazard appeals to readers with an interest in social theory and beyond. It provides a captivating glimpse into the evolution of intellectual life in the present university, offering insights into the struggles and triumphs of scholars as they navigate the complex terrain of academia. Turner's memoir serves as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of knowledge in shaping one's academic career.

Weight: 520g
Dimension: 161 x 239 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803826707