Reintroducing George Herbert Mead

George Herbert Mead's social theory of meaning and the 'self' is increasingly relevant in light of online self-development. His pragmatic philosophy can help us understand a wider range of contemporary issues, such as human-environment interaction, deliberative democracy, thinking dependence on the body and others, and social changes affecting our understanding of the past. This book provides an approachable introduction to Mead's contemporary relevance in the social sciences, highlighting his pragmatic view of social action as the core of his theory, offering insights into human agency, symbolism, politics, social change, temporality, and materiality. It will appeal to scholars of sociology and the social sciences more broadly.

Format: Hardback
Length: 116 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

George Herbert Mead, renowned for his influential social theory of meaning and the 'self,' takes on renewed significance in the context of our online selves. However, recent scholarship has revealed that Mead's pragmatic philosophy extends its reach to address a wide array of contemporary concerns. From exploring the interplay between humans and natural environments to examining the workings of deliberative democracy, the impact of thinking on the body and others, and the consequences of social transformations on our historical interpretations, Mead's ideas offer valuable insights. Historical scholarship has also undergone a transformation, shedding light on Mead's social reform initiatives, his engagement with colonization and war, and a critical reevaluation of his posthumous works.

In this book, we delve into Mead's contemporary relevance within the social sciences. We demonstrate how his pragmatic perspective on social action forms the foundation of his theory, providing profound insights into human agency, symbolism, politics, social change, temporality, and materiality. This book appeals to scholars of sociology and the social sciences, particularly those interested in social theory and the enduring significance of the sociological classics.

Through a comprehensive and accessible approach, this book offers a valuable entry point into Mead's thought, enabling readers to engage with his ideas and apply them to contemporary social and cultural contexts. As we navigate the complexities of our digital age, Mead's insights provide a valuable compass for understanding the human experience and the broader social dynamics that shape our world.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367463991