Abstract
A theory is an explanation of how things work and why things happen. Theories allow us to make sense of our world— they provide answers to the ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions of life— by showing the way certain facts are connected to one another. This chapter provides an overview of the main theoretical perspectives in health sociology. Differences between the theoretical perspectives are discussed, particularly with reference to the structure– agency debate and the different questions addressed by each perspective. The chapter ends with a plea for theoretical pluralism and a caution against confusing perspectives with specific theories.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Second opinion |
| Subtitle of host publication | An introduction to health sociology |
| Editors | John Germov |
| Place of Publication | South Melbourne, Victoria |
| Publisher | Oxford University Press, USA |
| Chapter | 2 |
| Pages | 24-42 |
| Number of pages | 19 |
| Edition | 6th |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9780190306496 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780190306489 |
| Publication status | Published - 2019 |