1st Edition

The Sociological Theory of Margaret Archer A Critical Appraisal

By Graham Scambler Copyright 2026
190 Pages
by Routledge

190 Pages
by Routledge

190 Pages
by Routledge

Margaret Archer’s contribution to the development of sociological theory has been significant and lasting. This volume by Graham Scambler offers both an account of her evolving body of work over time and an appraisal of its salience for contemporary sociological theory and practice. The author demonstrates how Archer’s work drew on Roy Bhaskar’s critical realist philosophy while displaying a... Read more

Introduction  Part I Archer's Evolving Theory  1. The Comparative Study of National Systems of Education  2. Structure, Culture and Agency  3. Internal Conversations  4. Reflexivity and the Morphogenetic Society  Part II Critiques and Debates  5. Theoretical Critiques and Responses  6. Empirical and Theoretical Applications

Biography

Graham Scambler is Emeritus Professor of Sociology at University College London and Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences, UK.

'With the passing of Margaret Archer, Critical Realism has lost its foremost sociologist, and Social Sciences in general a towering theoretician. In this engaging new book, Graham Scambler offers what he calls a "critical appraisal" of Archer's corpus. Well-written and insightful, this first full-length valuation helps us all absorb the full significance of Archer's work.'

Professor Douglas V. Porpora, Drexel University, Philadelphia, USA

'An elegant exposition of Margaret Archer’s work, including various critiques, debates and applications in health and beyond. In doing so, Graham Scambler proves the perfect guide to a key sociologist whose contribution to the field was immense. The book will appeal to students and seasoned scholars alike in sociology, social theory and cognate domains.'

Simon Williams, Emeritus Professor of Sociology, University of Warwick, UK.