Synopses & Reviews
Herbert Spencer remains a significant but poorly understood figure in 19th century intellectual life. His ideas on evolution ranged across the natural sciences and philosophy, and he pioneered new ideas in psychology and sociology. This book comprehensively examines his work and strips away common misconceptions about his sociology.
About the Author
John Offer is Professor of Social Theory and Policy, University of Ulster, UK.
He has published extensively on Spencer and aspects of the history of social policy. His previous books include
An Intellectual History of British Social Policy,Herbert Spencer: Critical Assessments and
Social Workers, the Community and Social Interaction.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Early Spencer: Influences and Ideas
Middle Spencer: Toward a Tapestry of the World
Later Spencer: Crafting the Principles of Sociology, and Losing Hold
Evolution and Mind
Mind and Society
The Social Organism
Militant and Industrial Social Types
Understanding Music
Sociology, Evolution and Ethics
Conclusion